MJHL champion NorMan Blizzard lose head coach

The reigning Mantioba Junior Hockey League champions will look a lot different next season, as head coach and general manager Eric Labrosse has left the program.

Labrosse and assistant coach PA Deslaurier came to NorMan two years ago, leading them to a pair of strong seasons as the club went through massive changes off the ice, including a name and arena change for The Pas-based team.

“We wish nothing but the best of luck to both Eric & P.A., thank you for your service at a most-critical juncture of our history,” a news release on the Blizzard’s website reads.

“Their hard work and assisting in our laying a strong foundation, has set the groundwork for future success, you shall be missed.”

Last season Labrosse signed a five-year extension with the Blizzard. Born in Quebec, Labrosse had coaching stops in USports, Junior A, professional leagues in France and in major junior before moving to Manitoba. Labrosse and Deslaurier’s next stop has yet to be announced.

This is the second consecutive year the defending MJHL champions have lost their head coach in the ensuing off-season, as Justin Falk left the Winkler Flyers in the summer of 2024 to join the Buffalo Sabres as a scout.

The team has already began their search for his replacement.