Serge Lajoie will not be returning as the head coach of the Kamloops Blazers for the 2019/20 WHL season.

The two sides mutually parted ways today, after a 28-32-6-2 season that ended in a first round playoff defeat to the Victoria Royals.

“It certainly wasn’t an easy day,” said Blazers GM Matt Bardsley. “I think it was just the combination of us not being sure if it was the right fit for us and for Serge.”

“I also think after talking with Serge, him being here without his family probably played a little bit of a part as well. When you are here without family, it’s certainly not easy.”

The Blazers had a dominant end to the season in March where they beat the Kelowna Rockets in a tie-breaker game to force their way into the playoffs.

“It’s bittersweet,” he told Radio NL. “I would have really liked to have continued with this group, you know with the way we ended the season.”

“The players earned every opportunity they got, and they earned the right to get into the playoffs and I thought we had a good run there against Victoria. When I see the future of this club, it’s exciting for whoever comes in to build off of what this group has accomplished.”

Prior to joining the Blazers, Lajoie was head coach for the University of Alberta Golden Bears for three seasons, leading them to the 2018 U Sports title.

The Blazers say the search for the next head coach will begin immediately.

-With files from Jon Keen

 

Blazers would like to have Darryl Sydor return next season in some capacity, but in what capacity is the question. Remember, he’s also a minority owner.

— Jon Keen (@JonKeenNLSports) April 11, 2019

Should be noted that Asst. Dan Kordic has been retained. #Kamloops

— Jon Keen (@JonKeenNLSports) April 11, 2019