Trotz quits as Caps coach after Stanley Cup triumph

Trotz quits as Caps coach after Stanley Cup triumph
AFP

Washington (AFP) – Washington Capitals head coach Barry Trotz resigned Monday, just 11 days after guiding the team to their first Stanley Cup crown.

A statement from the Capitals expressed disappointment at Trotz’s decision to quit in the wake of the team’s victory in the National Hockey League showpiece series on June 7.

“Barry Trotz informed the organization today of his decision to resign as head coach of the Washington Capitals,” the team said.

“We are obviously disappointed by Barry’s decision, but would like to thank Barry for all his efforts the past four years and for helping bring the Stanley Cup to Washington.

“Barry is a man of high character and integrity and we are grateful for his leadership and for all that he has done for our franchise.”

Trotz, 55, joined the Capitals from Nashville in 2014 after 15 seasons with the Predators.

The Capitals clinched a 4-1 series victory over the Vegas Golden Knights earlier this month to end a lengthy wait for a title.

Washington had lost in the second round of the playoffs in each of the previous three seasons under Trotz.

US media reports said Trotz had been due to become a free agency this year, but had a clause in his contract which enabled him to add a two-year extension with the Capitals if he won the Stanley Cup.

Negotiations over the terms of an extended contract broke down however, prompting Trotz to resign.

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