The Halifax Mooseheads have officially appointed Brad MacKenzie as their new head coach following Andrew Lord’s departure to the American Hockey League (AHL). Lord has taken on the head coaching role with the Ontario Reign, marking a significant step in his coaching career as he aims for an eventual position in the National Hockey League (NHL).

Andrew Lord announced his decision with a mix of emotions, expressing gratitude for his time with the Mooseheads while also looking forward to his new opportunity. “It is with mixed emotions that I have decided to leave the Mooseheads. Excited for the opportunity to become a Head Coach in the American Hockey League and to return to an organization that treated me very well during my time in Greenville, and it’s one step closer to the ultimate goal of coaching in the NHL,” Lord stated.

During his tenure with the Mooseheads, which spanned just one season, Lord guided the team through a rebuilding phase to secure the last playoff spot. The Mooseheads made history by becoming the first 16th-seeded team in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) to win a playoff round, defeating the Drummondville Voltigeurs in a compelling seven-game series.

The Mooseheads’ ownership, Sam and Peter Simon, expressed their gratitude towards Lord, emphasizing his significant contributions to the team. “We want to thank Andrew Lord for his contributions to the Mooseheads and wish him nothing but the best in the future. We equally believe Brad MacKenzie is the right person to lead our organization as we take the next step in this journey,” they remarked.

Brad MacKenzie, who has been with the Mooseheads for five seasons, transitions from his role as associate coach to assume the head coaching position. At just 32 years old, the native of Prince Edward Island becomes the 15th head coach in the history of the Mooseheads franchise. In response to his promotion, MacKenzie expressed his enthusiasm for the new challenge, stating, “I am incredibly grateful and thrilled for the opportunity to take the Head Coaching role with the Mooseheads.”

This coaching change reflects the Mooseheads' aim to build on their recent success and continue progressing as a competitive team in the QMJHL. As MacKenzie steps into his new role, all eyes will be on how he navigates the upcoming season, aiming to further develop the team and potentially lead them to new heights in the league.