Mike Babcock is officially resigning as coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Canadian (60) resigned just two and a half months after taking up the position, ahead of the first game of the season. The reason: Babcock caused a stir after asking his players to show photos on their smartphones. Recently, two people responsible for the NHLPA players union also contacted the NHL club. That was the last straw and Babcock suffered the consequences.
“I realized that remaining the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets would be too distracting,” the hockey coach said in an official statement. Babcock also stressed: “I know it is in the best interests of the organization for me to resign.” The Canadian coach was disappointed that he did not get the opportunity to continue the work he had started. However, he said that his retirement at this time would be in the best interest of the organization. “I wish everyone in the organization the best of luck for the upcoming season,” Babcock said.
Babcock won a Stanley Cup as a coach with the Detroit Red Wings in 2008. With the Canadian national team he won gold medals at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and 2014 in Sochi.
Former assistant coach Pascal Vincent will replace Babcock. He will now be responsible for the remainder of the preparations for the new season. Vincent was given a two-year contract until the 2024/25 season. Columbus will face the Philadelphia Flyers in the National Hockey League season opener on October 12.
