There has been a coaching change for the Buffalo Junior Sabres.
The team announced Tuesday that General Manager Michael Peca will assume the role of Head Coach at the conclusion of the 2011-2012 season.
Head coach Grant Ledyard has stepped down, effective immediately. Russ Certo will serve as the team’s interim head coach for the remainder of this season with Peca serving as an assistant.
WBFO News spoke to Peca early Tuesday afternoon.
"Changes in sports are inevitable and I think the Junior Sabres organization felt that was the case here and you know Grant was a fantastic coach and fantastic teacher and unfortunately it seem like time ran its course and changes were made," said Peca.
"Grant has passionately coached this team and has done all he can to help us move this program forward over the past five years. The Junior Sabres are still in Buffalo in part because of Grant’s commitment,” said Larry Playfair, president of the Buffalo Sabres Alumni Association and Buffalo Junior Sabres. “Michael has been a very involved General Manager and will now take an on-ice role when his schedule permits. Russ knows the team and will ensure continuity while Mike makes the transition to head coach for next season. It’s an unusual situation, but they are both exceptional people and we are confident they will make it work."
The Junior Sabres’ next game is Tuesday, January 10 at the Northtown Center in Amherst.