DANNY Stewart has departed Coventry Blaze to become head coach at Elite League rivals Nottingham Panthers for the 2024/25 Elite League season.
Stewart’s decision to join the Panthers from next season brings an end to his 12-year association with Blaze as both a player and coach.
Blaze will announce a new head coach in due course with Stewart to replace outgoing Panthers coach Jonathan Paredes.
Blaze managing director Mike Cowley said: “I would like to place on record our thanks to Danny for his invaluable service and dedication to the Blaze over the last eight years, and also before that as a player.
“His contribution and commitment have been immense, and though we are saddened to see him depart, he leaves a legacy with us that is invaluable.”
Stewart, a native of Fort McMurray, Canada, first joined Blaze in 2006 and over four years played a big part in Blaze’s major successes.
He won the Elite League Championship on three occasions, while also securing the Challenge Cup and Knockout Cup.
In 287 total appearances, the competitive Stewart scored 201 points (75 goals, 126 assists) and, as a player who always stuck up for himself and his teammates, amassed 698 penalty minutes.
He retired from playing in 2016 and following several years away in Newcastle and Fife, he returned to Coventry as head coach and, two years later, he was also made director of hockey operations.
The 45-year-old just completed his seventh straight season as Blaze coach and eighth year, which included leading the club in the Elite Series during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Stewart celebrated a testimonial in 2023, which honoured his dedication and outstanding contribution both on and off the ice over a substantial period.
Blaze finished the 2023/24 Elite League season in sixth place before losing to Belfast Giants in the play-offs.
