The Cape Breton West Islanders U18 Major team announced the appointment of former Islander Willie MacDonald to the position of Head Coach for the upcoming season. MacDonald will take over from former Head Coach Kyle Gillies who was in the position for 12 years.
Willie MacDonald is a native of Baddeck and played 2 seasons for the Islanders before moving on to play in the MHA, 3 years in Amherst and 1 year with the Pictou Jr A Crushers.
His coaching resume is extensive:
Asst Coach with Nova Bantams in 2015-16
Asst Coach with the Islanders in 2016-17 where he was instrumental in helping the team win the Telus Cup
Head Coach of Sydney Rush U18 Major
Two years Asst Coach with Pictou Jr A Crushers
Parts of two seasons as Head Coach with Pictou Jr A Crushers
Going into 3rd season as GM with Pictou Jr A Crushers
The Islanders say he will be bringing structure and discipline to the teams, which will mesh well with the large group of returning players and the many young prospects.
The Islanders training camp opens Aug 19th in Antigonish.