Former National Hockey League (NHL) assistant coach Paul Jerrard died Thursday at the age of 57.
The University of Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks in the NCAA, where he has served as an assistant coach since 2018, announced his death in a press release, mentioning that he was “quietly” battling cancer.
“Our program will forever be indebted to PJ for his immeasurable positive impact,” said Mavericks head coach Mike Gabinet. PJ attacked each day with a team-first attitude, buoyant enthusiasm and an unparalleled drive to help our young men grow and develop.”
A native of Winnipeg, Jerrard was a three-time NHL assistant coach with the Colorado Avalanche (2002-03), the Dallas Stars (2011-13), and the Calgary Flames (2016-18). He also held the same position in the American League for 12 years with multiple teams including the Hershey Bears and the Iowa Stars.
“It’s really sad,” Flames defenseman Michael Stone, who played under him in Calgary, told the NHL website. He really was a good guy. A great person to be around. He was always full of energy. I really enjoyed the time with him.”