Dave Cameron had just hung up his skates. It was 1985. He needed a new job after only 168 games in the NHL, but many more in the minor leagues.
Posted yesterday at 3:54 p.m.
Joshua Clipperton
The Canadian Press
He found his niche working in institutions for young offenders and as a guidance counselor in secondary schools. He was passionate about it, just as much as for the sport he loved so much.
It was at this moment that a plan germinated within him.
« The coaching combines my two passions,” Cameron explained. My love of hockey and teaching. »
The native of Kinkora, Prince Edward Island, managed a junior A team on the side for almost 10 years before deciding to make the jump behind the bench full-time. It’s been a winding road since then, with stops all over North America – including seven seasons in the NHL – in addition to stints in Austria and on the international scene.
After nearly 40 years, Cameron wouldn't have it any other way as he prepares to lead Canada to the World Junior Championship.
“You bounce all over the place and you have to embrace the challenges,” Cameron said. I started out in what could be described as “old school hockey”. I was able to adapt to the evolution of hockey. That's probably what I'm most proud of. »
Hockey Canada approached Cameron following a disastrous fifth-place finish at last year's tournament in Sweden, when Canada was surprisingly eliminated in the quarterfinals.
The team never really got going in Gothenburg, unable or unwilling to do what was required in tougher times. Hockey Canada executives are confident that Cameron will be able to take the club to another level.
“Dave has proven with us in the past and in many other places that he is able to get the best out of his players and teams,” commented Scott Salmond, senior vice-president, high performance at the national federation. .
Cameron led the Junior National Team to silver in 2011 and gold in 2022 as head coach. He also acted as an assistant during two tournaments, including in 2009, when Canada also won in Ottawa.
He will be somewhat at home during the tournament played from December 26 to January 5: the 66-year-old currently leads the Ottawa 67's and was at the helm of the Senators for 143 games from 2014 to 2016.
Cameron has had to constantly reimagine himself throughout his career, particularly on how to manage players.
“We live in a world that is definitely gentler, kinder, that’s for sure,” he said, laughing. You have to communicate, develop your relationships. When you're coaching at the junior level, because of the many elite youth hockey programs, it's often the first time they've encountered obstacles to their playing time. You have to convince them that it's okay to have to deserve things. »
Cameron will also have to lead a group of youngsters who will be under immense pressure playing the tournament at home.
“I see it more as an opportunity than pressure,” he notes.
“I feel humbled,” Cameron added. I feel very blessed to be able to do something I love. »
