Stewart takes up Head Coach role in Nottingham

Photo: Scott Wiggins

Danny Stewart will be the new Head Coach of Nottingham Panthers, it has been confirmed.

The 45-year-old has been behind the bench for Coventry Blaze since 2016, and was previously an Associate Coach in Fife for three years prior. Stewart first arrived in the UK as a player for Coventry in 2006/07 and was part of the Blaze side that won back-to-back Elite League titles. He was voted as EIHL Coach of the Year in 2010/11 while in charge of Newcastle Vipers.

“There were many things that attracted me to the role,” said Stewart. “The history of Nottingham, the resources available, the staff and people involved with the club. I’m excited.

“We will play fast but we will also be a team that plays for each other. My teams have done that in the past and that will be our expectation.

“Nottingham is a great fanbase and a great city and I have a bit of history as back in my playing days Coventry and Nottingham were great rivals.

“I say it every year when I get asked that Nottingham is my favourite venue. Being able to experience that week in, week out will be exciting.”

Panthers CEO, Omar Pacha, said: "We are so thrilled to appoint Danny as our new Head Coach.

“When Jonathan let us know he was moving, it was a no-brainer to go for Danny. He knows the Elite League inside-out as a coach and a player and that’s important.

"He has spent many seasons with the same teams and that's something that also appealed to us. We have made this appointment with a long-term vision in mind.

“He’s a true leader, wears his heart on his sleeve and has a great tactical brain. As a player and now a coach, he breeds passion.

“Danny has got the best out of the teams he has coached and has earned this opportunity. We are confident that he will do a great job and be a good fit for the Nottingham Panthers.”

Coventry Blaze Managing Director Mike Cowley commented, "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."