Avalanche reorganize

WASILLA — Just like any of the North American Hockey League squads, the priority during the offseason for the Alaska Avalanche is to rebuild the roster.

But Alaska officials also spent the summer ensuring the franchise is also strong off the ice.

Alaska Avalanche head coach Dave Boitz has been promoted and will assume the role of general manager, Avalanche president Jamie Smith said on Thursday, and the Avs have also named Patrick O’Neil the team’s marketing director.

“It broadens what we have going on and allows us to help in areas that need attention,” Smith said.

Smith had assumed the role as president and general manager since he left the position of Avs head coach nearly two years ago. He had also done much of the team’s marketing.

But with Boitz and O’Neil taking on many of those responsibilities, Smith can focus on other areas, he said.

Smith will continue to act as the president of the organization’s nonprofit business and booster club.

Smith will concentrate on much of the fundraising. He will also oversee the youth program.

“That’s a vital part to us being successful,” Smith said. “That piece of the puzzle is huge.”

While continuing to coach the team, Boitz will handle most personnel matters. He and assistant coach Brian Huebel will handle much of the recruiting.

O’Neil’s task, Smith said, is simply to spearhead an aggressive marketing campaign to get the organization out in the community as much as possible.

“We don’t want to leave any stone unturned,” Smith said.

O’Neil will also oversee game-day management.

With the addition of O’Neil there are now three full-time paid positions within the front office of the organization.

Contact Frontiersman sports editor Jeremiah Bartz at sports@frontiersman.com.