Cote joins RDC Kings Hockey coaching staff

A familiar face in central Alberta hockey circles is headed back to the area.

After just one season with the Prince Albert Raiders as an assistant coach, Brandin Cote has accepted a similar position with the Red Deer College Kings.

The native of Swift Current joined the Raiders prior to the 2016-17 season and ultimately had to make a tough family decision – his wife and two young boys staying in Red Deer.

“It was one of those things I knew going in that I was just signing a one-year deal to go there and obviously we didn’t have a lot of success — that had nothing to do with it — it was my decision,” he said. “I wanted and they wanted to make it work to go back [to Prince Albert], but we [the family] did the whole long distance thing. That was tough and was part of it.”

Cote, who doubles as a teacher at St. Patrick’s Community School, also says he’s joining a Kings team ready to take the next step.

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“They have a good program going — Trevor Keeper has done a real good job and Cody Reynolds has been there for a few years as an associate coach,” he says. “I learned a ton last year from Marc Habscheid, Dave Manson and Curtis Hunt in PA, so just to bring that knowledge and things I’ve done — maybe bring a fresh look to things. They’ve done a real good job recruiting and there’s a lot of skill on that team.”

Cote began coaching in 2013 with the Bentley Generals (prior to their relocation), leading them to an Allan Cup title. He then took over as head coach of the Red Deer Optimist Chiefs for two years.

Cote will also serve as an associate coach for Team Alberta at this year’s Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup.

“We thank Brandin for his contribution while here in Prince Albert,” added Raiders GM Curtis Hunt. “We wish him the best of luck as he continues his coaching career.”

The RDC Kings begin their preseason schedule on September 15 against SAIT.

(with files from paNOW.com)