New coach revealed as Bob Woods trades Saskatoon Blades for Buffalo Sabres

The Saskatoon Blades will enter the upcoming season with Dean Brockman at the helm after head coach Bob Woods left to help coach the New York-based Buffalo Sabres.

Brockman has been promoted to become the team's 21st head coach after two seasons working alongside Woods as the assistant coach.

The Blades' new leadersaid he would help the team boost its play strategically, and by improving the mental side of the game.

"I have great passion for our players and I want to help guide them through the obstacles that stand in their way so we can together find,and enjoy,success," he said in a statement on the Blades'website.

The team said in a statement Brockman was well-suited for the job. Prior working with the Blades, he coached the Humboldt Broncos of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League for 17 years. He also led the team to victory in the Royal Bank Cup in 2003 and 2008.

Woodssaidhe was thrilled with the opportunity to work alongside Stanley Cup-winning coach DanBylsmaat the NHL.

"It's an example I'd love to follow," he said.

"I have mixed emotions leaving the Blades since the team is turning the corner but I know the players are in great hands."