University Coach who Worked in the NHL Fired over 'Inappropriate' Messages
The head coach of the University of Vermont's Men's Hockey team, who has held several different positions with NHL teams, has lost his job. UVM released a statement earlier today that said Todd Woodcroft had been let go and has been replaced by Assistant Coach Steve Wiedler. Woodcroft's dismissal had nothing to do with the team's performance.
"The University of Vermont Athletic Department has high expectations for the conduct of our coaches and all involved with our department. After reviewing the findings of an investigation conducted by UVM's Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity that was completed this week, it is clear that Coach Woodcroft failed to meet those expectations. The specific conduct leading to the investigation involved inappropriate text messages with a UVM student on multiple occasions that failed to maintain professional boundaries.
The release did not say what the contents of the messages included, nor did it give any indication as to whether the student involved had anything to do with the University's hockey program.
Before becoming head coach at UVM, Woodcroft was employed by a few NHL teams for stretches of time, including as a video coach and scout with the Minnesota Wild and Washington Capitals. Woodcroft also spent time as a scout in Calgary and Los Angeles. His highest position in the NHL as been as an assistant coach with the Winnipeg Jets (2016-2020). Woodcroft has also served as an assistant coach for Belarus and Sweden at international tournaments, as well as in the KHL.
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