COVENTRY Blaze assistant coach Dayle Keen died suddenly on Monday (February 26) at the age of 33.
Affectionately known as Keeno, he has been an integral part of the ice hockey club since 2018.
Keen also worked as Great Britain under-20’s assistant coach and was part of two silver medal winning teams in 2020 and 2023 and helped lead the GB youngsters to bronze medals in 2022 and 2024.
A club statement read: “Coventry Blaze are devastated after receiving the news that Assistant Coach Dayle Keen, affectionately known as Keeno, passed away on Monday whilst in Scotland.
“The whole organisation is shocked by his sudden death.
“Our thoughts are with Keeno’s family, his children, and many friends at this very sad time.
“We know that this news will be difficult for many to process, and we kindly ask that anyone struggling seeks the support needed.”
Great Britain Ice Hockey (IHUK) said: “The Great Britain national team and Ice Hockey UK are devastated by the news that Coach Dayle Keen passed away this week.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Dayle’s family, friends and team-mates.
“Dayle was a popular character throughout UK hockey, much loved by everyone across the country especially in the GB set-up and his domestic club, Coventry Blaze.
“Dayle had a positive impact on everyone he met and lit up a room with his wit and humour. Rest in peace Dayle. We will never forget you.”
During his playing career, Keen played for Solway Sharks and Kilmarnock Storm before starting his coaching career.
After stints with Basingstoke Bison’s juniors and Sheffield Steeldogs in the EPIHL, he joined Coventry Blaze in the Elite League in 2018 as Skills Coach.
He quickly made an impression at Blaze and became assistant coach ahead of the 2019 season.
