Hounds’ new goalie coach
Matt Smith is following in some big foot steps as the new goalie coach for the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League.
As in, the previous four goalie coaches for the Greyhounds are now with pro hockey teams.
Dan Stewart of the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League, Colin Zulianello of the Stockton Heat of the American Hockey League, Jon Elkin of the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, and Seamus Kotyk of the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres preceded Smith as Greyhound goalie coaches.
Just 31-years old, Smith has had five of his students from his Matt Smith Goaltending Inc. drafted into the NHL over the past three years, including 2020 OHL goalie of the year Nico Daws of the Guelph Storm.
“We are fortunate to be able to add Matt to our staff for the upcoming season,” relayed Greyhounds general manager Kyle Raftis. “Matt has a proven track record of developing goaltenders and helping them get to the next level. Knowing Matt and his philosophies, he’s going to be a great fit for our staff and for our team’s goaltenders.”
Smith, in turn, is looking forward to his association with the Greyhounds.
“I have a great amount of respect for the Greyhounds organization and the support they have from the Sault Ste. Marie community. In my discussions with Kyle Raftis and (head coach) John Dean it’s clear to see why they have success and the winning culture they’ve created. I look forward to playing a role in the development of our goaltenders and hopefully bring a Memorial Cup back to the Soo,” Smith relayed.