Prince George, B.C.- The Prince George Spruce Kings have signed Dave Dupas to a three year contract to be the Head Coach of the team. The position starts immediately and includes the primary role of head coach along with scouting, recruitment, player development and work with the annual Spring Prospects Camp and annual Spruce Kings Hockey School.

"Dave is somebody who earned our trust and earned this opportunity," said Spruce Kings President, Darcy Buryn. "Dave came in to a difficult situation and through his hard work, with the rest of the hockey operations staff, had the team gaining momentum. By the end of the season, the Spruce Kings were a team that everybody was proud to watch."

"The work that Dave had done in his short stint as interim head coach was recognized by everyone," continued Buryn. "The players were vocal in their support of Dave and that was a determining factor. From the hockey operations staff to the players, it was clear there was one unanimous choice."

The Spruce Kings have also announced Mike Hawes has been named the team's General Manager. Previously the Assistant General Manager, Hawes was able to assume and carry out the duties and
responsibilities of the General Manager.

"Mike Hawes has shown a high level of professionalism and honesty over the years," said Spruce Kings President, Darcy Buryn. "The promotion to General Manager is a natural progression. Mike is a dedicated member of the team and having played minor hockey in Prince George and living in this city, Mike understands the complex issues that play a role in the continued success of a hockey team based in the North."

Dave Dupas and the rest of the hockey operations staff have been working on building the roster for the team's 40th season. The first glimpse of what will be, happens this weekend with the annual Spring Prospects Camp that runs Friday April 1st through to Sunday April 3rd.