New job for Chris Hartsburg
Hartsy’s kid is moving up.
Chris Hartsburg is departing his job as an assistant coach with the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League to accept the head-coaching position with the Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League.
“It’s tough leaving the people you worked with all year,” said Hartsburg. “That is a special group and we went through a lot this season. It’s a bittersweet exit. I’m very excited to become a head coach. It’s something you strive towards as a young coach getting started. This is a great opportunity for me and my family. I’m joining a great team with a great owner and general manager to work alongside.”
Hartsburg is the son of Craig Hartsburg, the former Soo Greyhounds defenceman and head coach who is now the associate coach with the Columbus Blue Jackers of the National Hockey League.
Father, to be sure, is proud of son.
“I’m pretty proud,” Craig told me via e-mail. “It will be a big challenge for Chris. Erie was great for him and opened up some doors after a great season.”
The 33-year Hartsburg leaves Erie after one season with words of praise from Otters head coach Kris Knoblauch and general manager Sherry Bassin.
“Chris played a huge part in of our 2013-2014 season which set numerous franchise records,” said Knoblauch said. “His leadership, teaching skills, and knowledge of the game will make him an excellent addition to the Lincoln Stars organization. We would like to thank Chris for his contributions and wish him all the best with his new team.”
“We are sorry to see him leave,” said Bassin, “but at the same time we are happy for him to get the opportunity to be a head coach. He made significant contributions to our success over the last year and we will miss him as he embarks in this special new opportunity.”