Lucas Gore has been added to the Spruce Kings coaching staff.
The former Chilliwack Bruins/Vernon Vipers goalie is taking on the Kings' job as his first regular assignment in junior A hockey.
“I’m definitely excited," said Gore, in a team release. "Since my playing career ended I’ve always wanted to get involved in coaching. I’ve done some work around Kamloops with the junior B and major midget teams, so I’m excited to take the next step with the Spruce Kings. This is the first full team job I’ve had, but with being a recent player I think I’ll be able to relate to the goalies pretty well and help them improve."
Gore, 25, is a former teammate of Kings assistant coach Ryan Howse. They played together for three seasons while they were with the WHL Bruins. He started his junior career in 2007-08 with the Vipers.
After graduating the junior ranks, Gore played four years in the CIS with the University of Regina Cougars, from 2011-15. He went on to play seven games in the ECHL for the Stockton Thunder.
“We are thrilled to have Lucas come on board with the Spruce Kings to work with our goaltenders," said Kings general manager Mike Hawes. "He comes highly recommended by our former goaltender consultant and current Kamloops Blazers goaltender coach, Dan DePalma, who had nothing but good things to say about Lucas and his passion for helping young goaltenders.
"Lucas had a tremendous track record as a player and is not that far removed from playing which will allow him to relate very closely to today’s goalies."
