New Hockey Coach Arrives In Coachella Valley: What To Know About Scott Ford

PALM DESERT, CA — Scott Ford was hired as an assistant coach for the Coachella Valley Firebirds, the organization announced Wednesday.

"He's a tremendous teacher of the game who has earned the respect of players and coaches throughout professional hockey,'" Firebirds General Manager Troy Bodie said in a statement. Scott understands what it takes to develop players, compete every day and build a winning culture. Those qualities align perfectly with what we're striving for in Coachella Valley, and we're excited to have him on board.

Ford, 46, had served as an assistant coach with the National Hockey League's Columbus Blue Jackets and coached for the American Hockey League's Milwaukee Admirals and Chicago Wolves. He has helped the Admirals capture three Central Division titles, qualify for the Calder Cup six times, and go back-to-back in the Western Conference finals, officials said.

The Fort St. John, British Columbia native began his coaching career with Milwaukee in 2015. He had played professionally in 522 AHL regular-season games with various teams, including the Cleveland Barons, Providence Bruins, Bridgeport Sound Tigers, and Peoria Rivermen, according to the team.

"I'm incredibly excited to join the Firebirds organization and become part of what has been built in the Coachella Valley," Ford said.

The Firebirds' new season will take place on Oct. 2 at the Acrisure Arena against the Ontario Reign.