Dave Lewis named new headcoach of Belarus

The new President of Belarus Federation Igor Raczkowski immediately had his work cut out to solve the question of the leadership of the national team after the sudden departure of Vladimir Krikunov last month, after Russian coach accepted a position at Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk. "The departure of Vladimir Krikunov was a surprise for us - said Raczkowski - When he signed the contract, it was absolutely clear that we would not have accepted a dual role, because the coach should have focused only on national team before the World Championship. Thus the contract was canceled by mutual agreement"

Today, at the meeting of the Executive Committee the candidacy of Canadian Dave Lewis was unanimously approved. Lewis, 61, worked as Carolina Hurricanes assistant in last three seasons.

"The process of evaluation of candidates wasn't simple - said Raczkowski introducing the new coach - We needed not just the head coach of national team because we want to build up a strategic approach. we needed someone who can build a clear program in the country from juniors to main team.we understand that Dave Lewis has a wealth of experience. amd his credibility is not in doubt."

"Mr. Lewis has a great experience as a player and coach. It is important that he has already worked with our team (as assistant coach) at the World Championship in 2009 and at Vancouver Olympics. He also led the national team of Ukraine so the job as head coach of a national team is not new for him." said General Secretary Jaroslav Zavgorodny

In last weeks rumours appointed former Switzerland coach Sean Simpson and Slovak Jan Filc as possible candidate

At the same meeting was introduced the plan to develope a corporate identity and an overall promotion strategy of Federation. A new logo and a promotional campaign will be presented in January. Finally the  referee Vladimir Proskurov will lead the judging committee of the Federation.

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