Longtime NHL, AHL and collegiate assistant coach Paul Jerrard passed away Wednesday at age 57 after a long battle with cancer, the NCAA’s Omaha Mavericks announced Thursday.
Jerrard served under Glen Gulutzan as an assistant coach with the Dallas Stars from 2011-13 and the Calgary Flames from 2016-18. He also worked for the Colorado Avalanche during the 2002–03 season.
At the time of his death, Jerrard was serving as an assistant with the Mavericks under Mike Gabinet, who played for Jerrard with the AHL’s Iowa Stars in 2005–06. Gabinet released a statement through the Mavericks on Thursday.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of assistant coach, Paul Jerrard. Paul had been quietly fighting a long-term battle with cancer. Our program will be forever indebted to PJ for his countless positive impact,” Gabinet said.
“PJ attacked each day with a team first attitude, vibrant enthusiasm, and an unmatched willingness to help grow and develop our young men. Knowing PJ first as my coach in pro hockey, and now having had the chance to work alongside him each day, I am beyond grateful for the lessons he shared and the loyal friendship we forged.”
Jerrard appeared in five NHL games as a defenseman with the Minnesota North Stars during the 1988–89 regular season. After winning the Calder Cup with the 1997 Hershey Bears, Jerrard retired as a player to begin his coaching career.
Over more than 25 years as an assistant coach, Jerrard worked for two teams in the NCAA, six in the AHL and three in the NHL. He remains one of very few Black coaches to work at a high level in hockey. During his tenure with the Flames, he was the only Black coach behind an NHL bench.
Jerrard joined the Mavericks in 2018 after being relieved of his duties by the Flames, ultimately working with the team for five years before his passing. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, and their two daughters.
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