A promotion leads to new leadership roles within the Lions de Trois-Rivières

A promotion leads to new leadership roles within the Lions de Trois-Rivières

Head Coach and General Manager of Hockey Operations for the Lions de Trois-Rivières – Pascal Rhéaume – has earned a promotion and he will be plying his trade with an American Hockey League (AHL) team beginning with the 2023-24 season. A major restructuring was therefore required within the Lions organization in light of Pascal’s departure, and to continue the excellent work he had accomplished since he began his tenure with the team. This has led to a restructuring among the current members of the organization, which experienced an excellent summer of quality off-season signings.

“These changes represent a watershed moment for the team, and demonstrate our commitment to growth and excellence both on and off the ice. We congratulate Pascal on this new chapter in his life and we wish him all the best in his new adventure,” said Dean MacDonald, president of Deacon Sports and Entertainment. Having played for several NHL teams, Rhéaume combines in-depth knowledge, strategic vision and an exceptional work ethic that means he’ll be well-prepared for his new team. “When an AHL team comes knocking for a member of our organization, it indicates that we did a good job in recruiting him. And we are confident and enthusiastic for the start of our own season on October 20 at Colisée Vidéotron,” Mr. MacDonald added.

The appointments announced by the Lions organization to best achieve its objectives and propel the team to new heights are as follows:

Not surprisingly, Ron Choules will become the head coach and general manager of hockey operations for the Lions de Trois-Rivières. With over 15 years of coaching experience in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), he sports invaluable expertise and already is familiar with the team’s workings. The former Trois-Rivières Draveurs and 12th round pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1983 had an impressive on-ice career. Since then, he’s made his mark in the hockey world, being on the staff of various teams: Recruiting, general management and training have shaped his in-depth knowledge which will be a valuable asset for the Lions de Trois-Rivières.

Having retired as a player at the end of the 2022-23 campaign, Mathieu Brodeur – a mainstay on the Lions' blue line since Trois-Rivières’ inaugural season – becomes assistant coach. As the team’s former assistant captain, he made his mark through his leadership, his exceptional vision of the game, his toughness and his discipline. He also holds the honour of having played in all the team’s regular season games and seven playoff games. Respected by his teammates and admired by the community, Mathieu is a valued member of the Lions family. His qualities and talents will go a long way towards achieving strong team chemistry in tandem with the goal of recording as many wins as possible.Alex Cousineau, who has played a crucial behind-the-scenes role since the team's inaugural season, becomes assistant general manager of hockey operations. He has previously been goaltending coach for the Concordia University Stingers, the Val-d'Or Foreurs and the Lions de Trois-Rivières, as well as being the Lions’ director of hockey operations this past season. Even with his new appointment, Cousineau will continue in his role as goaltending coach and the team’s video coach.

The Lions de Trois-Rivières are grateful to Pascal Rhéaume for his invaluable contributions, and congratulates Ron Choules, Mathieu Brodeur and Alex Cousineau in their new roles. The organization is confident this restructuring will lead to success in the seasons to come.