As reported here earlier this week the American Hockey League's Chicago Wolves have named Wendell Young as General Manager . Young seems a natural choice for the position having been with the club since its inception. First as its crown jewel in net, leading the team to Turner Cup championships as goalie in 1998 and 2000. Then as a coach for the Calder Cup in 2008. All this hardware with a pair of Memorial and Stanley Cup rings on his dresser at home. His succession to G M with these championships behind him mean far more than just the silver. To accomplish these he he has had to gain and understanding of the culture of winning necessary to bind a group of athletes together and make a team of them.
In an interview earlier today with Atlanta Thrashers Assistant Coach Todd Nelson he described Wendell Young to Powderhornhockey as having an “ Understanding what it takes to win.” More importantly he also said that “ Wendell has a way of bringing a team together” . The ability to scout a team that will gel is magic, the ability to keep it together during a season is alchemy. Championships take the greatest of management, Wolves owners and fans are accustomed to seeing banners raised and frequently. From the time he started out with the Cole Harbor Colts at 16 Wendell Young has been immersed in a culture of discipline, friendship and contacts. He should have a well filled Rolodex by now, perfect for prospect spotting. That's the work ahead of him, the alchemy of of building a team from a group of strangers, finding next years kids and keeping it all balanced. Young has been preparing for this since his first game with the Wolves in 1998, Kevin Chevyeldayof has cast a long shadow now is time for Young to make the job his own. Good luck and a winning season to him.
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