Former Kitchener Ranger returns as assistant coach

Toronto Maple Leafs goalie James Reimer (34) celebrates with Toronto Maple Leafs centre Nick Spaling (16) after defeating the Vancouver Canucks during third period NHL hockey action in Toronto on Saturday, November 14, 2015. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette)

The Kitchener Rangers have welcomed back one their own, but this time in a new role.

The team has named Nick Spaling their new assistant coach.

The 37-year-old from Palmerston started his hockey career with the Waterloo Wolves U16 AAA program before the Rangers picked him up during 2005 OHL Priority Selection. He played three seasons with the Rangers, recording 156 points in regular season action and 30 during the 2008 OHL Playoffs.

In the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Spaling was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the second round and 58th overall. He ultimately appeared in 437 NHL games with Nashville, Pittsburgh, Toronto and San Jose, spent two seasons in Europe playing for Genève-Servette HC and represented Team Canada at the 2016-17 Spengler Cup Tournament.

Spaling will join Jeff Kyrzakos, who was recently promoted to head coach, behind the bench.

“The opportunity to come back and be a part of an organization that means so much to me is beyond exciting,” he said in a media release. “I’m looking forward to joining Jeff, Brad and the whole staff and the great culture they have created here. Can’t wait to get started.”

Spaling was most recently an assistant coach with the GOHL’s Cambridge RedHawks, the current Sutherland Cup champions.

“We’re thrilled to add Nick to our staff,” Kyrzakos said. “His playing experience speaks for itself. Being local and an alum who understands our community is huge. He will bring so many elements that help our hockey club and we’re looking forward to working with him every day.”

According to the team, Spaling will lead the forward group while also taking responsibility for power play.

“Nick is a well-known and popular Rangers alum that understands the history and importance of what this team means to the community,” said Mike McKenzie, the general manager of the Kitchener Rangers. “We are thrilled to welcome back Nick to the Rangers.”