New Eisbären Coach Dubois: "Important to fill big shoes"

Éric Dubois is stepping into a demanding role as the new head coach of Eisbären Berlin, aiming to fill the large shoes left by his predecessor. The 56-year-old Canadian acknowledged the significant challenge ahead, stating, "It is important to fill big shoes. That is certain." However, he views the position as a "great opportunity" and expressed a desire to become part of the "championship mentality" that defines the Berlin club. Dubois's appointment follows Serge Aubin's departure after a highly successful six-year tenure, during which the team secured five championships in the German Ice Hockey League (DEL). The decision to promote Dubois, who has no prior head coaching experience at the professional level, came as a surprise to some. His coaching career includes stints in Canadian junior leagues and nine years as an assistant coach with the Manitoba Moose, the AHL farm team of the Winnipeg Jets. He then moved to the DEL as an assistant coach for ERC Ingolstadt a year ago. Dubois admitted he was "surprised" when Eisbären's sports director, Stéphane Richer, offered him the head coaching position but feels he has been "ready for a long time." He anticipates some skepticism regarding his promotion but insists he will focus on his job for the club and its players. Richer expressed full confidence in Dubois, whom he has known for some time and who had previously observed training camps with the Eisbären. "When Serge left, he was the first name that came to my mind," Richer stated, emphasizing Dubois's expertise as a "hockey professional" and a "good choice" for the team. Dubois plans to implement an offensive style of hockey characterized by high tempo and quick transitions, which he believes is the "new way of playing hockey" adopted by top teams to pressure opponents. His immediate priorities include ensuring the players remain "fresh" after demanding seasons and preventing complacency after three consecutive championships. Dubois declared his own hunger for success, aiming to lead by example.

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It is important to fill big shoes. That is certain.