A day after announcing he was stepping down as head coach of the University of Saskatchewan Huskies, Mike Babcock stifled rumors by unofficially announcing his retirement on Friday.
• Read also: Women’s hockey: two “practice matches” for Canada
• Read also: Philippe Myers will stay longer in Tampa
In an interview with the AM 680 CKOM radio channel, the man who led 1,301 games in the National Hockey League said it was “time to move on”.
“I always thought I was going to retire at 60, and I’m 59, so that explains it,” Babcock said. I imagine things can change, but that’s not the plan.
“Believe me, I’ve spoken to several people about potential opportunities and enjoyed those conversations. Ultimately, we think it’s the best decision for our family, so that’s what we’re doing.”
If the native of Saskatoon has indeed bowed out, he will have won during his illustrious career two Olympic gold medals and a Stanley Cup, with the Detroit Red Wings.