Bakersfield is the AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers.
“This city is where I began my playing career, as well as started cutting my teeth in the coaching business,” Manson said. “I am fortunate to have done it all in such a great league as the WHL, and even more so for my hometown team. I am sad to be leaving the Raiders, however, I am also extremely excited for the opportunities that away in the next chapter of my coaching career.
“I would like to thank the entire Raiders organization, from the GMs and coaches, front office staff, players, and trainer I have worked with over the years. I have cherished every moment of it.
“Prince Albert is my home and the Raiders will always hold a special place in my heart. I want to wish the best of luck to them in the future. I will be following closely.”
Manson, who hails from Prince Albert, joined the Raiders as an assistant coach in 2002. He spent seven seasons behind the bench with the club before joining the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League’s Prince Albert Mintos for two years. Manson rejoined the Raiders in 2011 and was promoted to associate coach prior to the 2012-13 campaign.
“We are excited for Dave and the opportunity ahead for him,” said Raiders General Manager Curtis Hunt. “He has been a tremendous coach and ambassador for the organization. We knew it was only a matter of time. We wish him the best of luck.”
Manson’s ties to the Raiders date back to his junior career. He patrolled the blueline for Prince Albert from 1983-86, suiting up in 218 games. In those games, he scored 24 goals and added 72 assists to go along with 666 penalty minutes. In the post-season, Manson played in 38 games and was part of the Raiders’ Memorial Cup win in 1985. He is also one of two players to have their numbers retired by the Raiders, with his No. 4 joining Mike Modano’s No. 9 in the rafters of the Art Hauser Centre on February 12, 2016.
In the 1985 NHL Entry Draft, Manson was selected 11th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks. After debuting with Chicago during the 1986-87, he also played for the Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets and Phoenix Coyotes, Montreal Canadiens, Dallas Stars, and the Toronto Maple Leafs during his 16-year NHL career.
(RaiderHockey.com/Brett Smith)
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