Vipers Coaching Candidates Down To Shortlist:

This is posted on the Kiss FM website:

Vipers Coaching Candidates Down To Shortlist

Written by Peter McIntyre Thursday, 18 September 2014

Getting close -- but nothing finalized.

That's how Vernon Vipers owner Duncan Wray sums up his search for a new head coach

Wray says he had 28 applicants for the job, and now has it down to a shortlist.

"There's more than one, and less than five (candidates)," Wray tells Kiss FM.

Wray expects to make his decision by next week.

"I want to go with someone who has knowledge of the league."

Wray says the applicants have been from across Canada, along with some from the U-S, and one from overseas.

"The sheer number is a little overwhelming, but it's good. The quality of some is higher than Junior A. I've had two who are assistants in the East Coast League and the NCAA."

Wray says he's been talking about some of the applicants with Vipers assistant GM Todd Miller and interim head coach Kevin Kraus, but the final decision will be up to him.

"You get to a point where you know what you want, not only in coaching skills, but with inter-personal skills, and the ability to communicate with people other than the players."

Wray says it's doubtful he will have someone hired before the BCHL's regular season starts Friday at the Showcase in Chilliwack.

"I doubt you'll hear anything before Friday," says Wray.

The position suddenly opened September 8 when fourth year coach/GM Jason Williamson resigned for personal reasons.

The Vipers and Cowichan Valley Capitals will open the new season at the Showcase Friday, playing at 3:30 pm.

Kiss FM is again the voice of the Vipers, featuring play by play with Graham Turnball.

Listen to Johnston Meier Vernon Vipers hockey on Kiss FM starting with the pre-game show at 3:15 pm Friday.