The SBP Archives - Your less than frequent dose of SBP!

It was a pretty crappy day for Ottawa sports yesterday. The Ottawa 67s and Senators were eliminated from post-season contention (the latter not even qualifying to make it in). The Ottawa Voyageurs didn't even get a chance to play one ball game this year as the league decided to fold them, citing problems with ownership in Atlantic City being another concern for the league.

And with all that, Brian Kilrea is no longer coach of the Ottawa 67s.

I had a chance to meet Brian Kilrea at a fundraiser at a local pub a few years ago that is now closed. He was a very friendly person, insisting you called him Brian after myself and others would refer to him as Mr. Kilrea. He made himself open to everyone in attendance and wouldn't mind sharing a few hockey stories if you wanted. He definitely knew how to work a crowd and leave them going home happy.

Hard to fathom his time as coach is now up after Ottawa lost in overtime to Niagra in seven games. He did so much for the 67s during his time here, and not just the OHL titles or Memorial Cup wins. The players he coached, from future NHL stars Michael Peca and Gary Roberts, to the rest who became insurance agents or government workers, they all cite his as a great, positive influence on their lives. He knew the game of hockey inside and out, but his influence outside the rink probably deserves more recognition than it currently does.

Brian will continue on as GM of the 67s, but it won't be the same. He was a fixture behind the bench and he will be missed by many. I certainly don't envy the task of the next 67s coach as he has big shoes to fill, but whoever it is will be off to a great start: he will be selected by a Hockey Hall of Famer, Brian Kilrea.

Best of luck, Killer.