It’s been a tough month for the Caravan hockey team. After being eliminated from the Kennedy Cup by Providence, and being knocked out of the state playoffs by Neuqua Valley, the team learned of yet another loss.

On February 8, Mount Carmel announced in an email to hockey parents from Athletic Director Dan LaCount and Hockey Moderator Craig Ferguson that Brian Black had stepped down as head coach of the varsity hockey team.

After three years of trying to turn the hockey team around without significant progress, LaCount and Ferguson believe that the hockey team needs a fresh start.  The search for a new coach will begin immediately. 

In the immediate aftermath of the change, the team had an exhibition game against Brother Rice, with Assistant Coaches Cliff Fitch and Scott Sinde running the bench.  Facing the Crusaders as they celebrated Senior Night, the Caravan lost 4-2.

Despite the shock of the coaching change and the disappointing post-season results, junior forward Trevor Nordstrom is optimistic.

“I am ready for a fresh start and to start working.”

Ferguson coached at both Mount Carmel and St. Rita before retiring after the 2016-2017 season, winning four Kennedy Cups for the Caravan.  He has coached and been involved with high school hockey for over 30 years.

If no replacement coach has been named, Ferguson will be coaching the Caravan in the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) showcase held in Chicago from March 27-29.

This tournament will showcase prep/academy teams from all over the country and Canada and will be held at the Edge Ice Arena in Bensenville.