A Shake-Up On The Avalanche Coaching Staff

You may have noticed a new, yet familiar, face running the Captain’s skates for the Colorado Avalanche the last few weeks.

It’s their new skills coach – Toby Petersen.

The former Colorado College graduate and NHL veteran is replacing Shawn Allard, who has been with the organization for the last 5 seasons. The Avalanche confirmed to me that Allard has left the organization, and that Petersen is his replacement.

Allard joined the Avalanche during the 2018-19 season and has been a crucial part of their coaching staff ever since, working with players as they come back from injury. During his tenure, injured players have been able to transition back into the Avalanche lineup with ease because of the work he did with them separately.

Now, Petersen, who played nearly 400 NHL games, will take over for him. The 44-year old Minnesota native spent six years as an Assistant Coach at the AHL level, including two seasons as Jared Bednar’s assistant in Springfield and Lake Erie. That means he’s also worked for GM Chris MacFarland as well.

While Allard has been huge for the organization, it’s good to know they find value in having a skills coach, and are keeping one on the staff. As Petersen has already been working with players this summer, that should make the transition a little easier.

Stay tuned to CHN, as we’re less than two weeks away from training camp getting underway.