New Assistant Coach Hired by Coachella Valley Firebirds

The Coachella Valley Firebirds, the Seattle Kraken's AHL affiliate, have appointed Brennan Sonne as an assistant coach. Sonne joins new head coach Derek Luxdal after a stellar three-year tenure with the Saskatoon Blades of the WHL.

"Brennan is a great addition to our coaching staff. He's an up-and-coming coach with a proven track record in the WHL of building relationships and developing players," said Luxdal.

At 37, Sonne brings a wealth of experience, having led the Saskatoon Blades to a record of 136-54-14 and three consecutive playoff appearances over the past three seasons. His diverse background includes coaching and playing in Canada's Junior Hockey, as well as stints in France and South China.

Sonne's winning resume is expected to bolster the Firebirds as they aim to overcome the Hershey Bears, who have bested them in back-to-back Calder Cup finals. Following the promotion of Dan Bylsma to head coach of the Seattle Kraken, the Firebirds are gearing up for another successful season.

Key players like Max McCormick, who had an impressive last season and recently signed a two-year deal with the Kraken, could potentially be promoted to the NHL. Sonne's addition to the coaching staff is anticipated to be a valuable asset for both the Firebirds and the Kraken in the 2024-25 season, as the Firebirds strive for their first Calder Cup victory.