NEWS: Justin Stevens to move on from Gee-Gees men’s hockey program
Gee-Gees men's hockey associate coach Justin Stevens will be moving on from the program in the coming weeks.
Stevens joined Ottawa as their full-time associate coach ahead of the 2023 season. During his time with the Gee-Gees, Stevens was instrumental in operating special teams, game planning, recruiting, scouting, and community endeavors, among other facets of the program.
His hard work and commitment helped lead to the University of Ottawa's first-ever men's hockey national title this past season. The championship win and three-game run at home will forever be etched in the history books.
"Being part of the Gee-Gees men's hockey program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career," said Stevens. "It's been a true privilege to learn from and work alongside Patrick Grandmaître and the entire coaching staff. I've also had the incredible opportunity to work with a group of student-athletes who brought commitment, character, and heart every single day."
"Our ultimate goal was to win a National Championship on home ice and make history. Being part of the team that achieved that goal is something I'll carry with me forever, not just because of the title, but because of everything it took to get there," Stevens continued.
"The resilience, the growth, the trust we built, that's what made this journey so special. This program became more than just a team to me; it became a second family. The Gee-Gees community is something special, and I'm incredibly proud to have been a part of it. I am excited for what is next in my career!"
As the person who worked most closely beside Stevens, Gee-Gees head coach Patrick Grandmaître had high praise for someone who was integral to the team's success.
"I would like to thank Justin for everything he has done for our program," said Grandmaître. "His passion, intelligence and energy impacted our team on a daily basis. Justin was the ultimate competitor as a coach. We would not be National Champions without him. In his 2 years at uOttawa he elevated our program and is now leaving it in a better place. Beyond hockey, we are also losing a friend and a family that we care deeply about. We are all extremely excited to see what the future holds for Justin as we know he is destined for great things."
Stevens will officially close his time with Ottawa on May 31st.
"On behalf of Recreation and Varsity Sports, we cannot thank Justin enough for his outstanding commitment to our program over the past two seasons," said Danika Smith, Assistant Director for Varsity Sports. "We are very excited to follow Justin's bright future and wish him nothing but good luck, he will always be a Gee-Gee."
A comprehensive search to replace Stevens is now underway, as the Gee-Gees turn the page to the offseason and their national title defence in 2025-26.