Piroski staying on as coach of the 73's
Tony Piroski will return as head coach of the Essex 73's for the 2024-25 season.
The 69-year-old Piroski came out of coaching retirement in December to guide the 73's to within a single victory of capturing the Bill Stobbs Division title in the Provincial Junior Hockey League.
“No matter what age you are, no one likes to see their season end that way, and we'll see if can't right the ship next season,” Piroski said.
Piroski had barely stepped off the ice following Game 7 of the final when he was inundated with questions about returning for another season.
“They were persistent and said all the right things,” Piroski said. “I had to run it past my wife (Melody) and said to her that, when you get to be my age, usually you're not wanted. So, it's sort of flattering.”
Piroski said the fact general manager Mike Pailey is in place means he doesn't have to worry about those duties, which he's done in years past. He's hopeful assistant coaches Lee Jones, Jamie Mcdermott and Chad Wolters will return, as well.
“It was a great group, respectful and a pleasure to coach, and we've got a good core coming back.”
CHENG TO LEAD CANADA
University of Windsor Lancers men's head basketball coach Chris Cheng will guide Canada's U17 boys' national team this summer.
Cheng has held several roles with Canada Basketball since 2013, but made his head coaching debut with the program's U16 team last year when he led the squad to a silver medal at the Men's Americas championship.
Cheng will guide Canada's U17 team at the FIBA Basketball World Cup, which is set for June 29-July 7 in Turkey. Canada is part of Group D in the 16-team tournament and will face Egypt, Germany and Australia.
“There is no greater honour than to represent your country,” Cheng said in a news release. “It gives me great joy to represent Canada.
“Any time I have an opportunity to do so, it's always a privilege. I'm looking forward to working with my staff and the 12 selected athletes to represent Canada at the world championships.”
HOOPS TOURNEY
The 43rd Franco- Ontario intermediate basketball tournament is headed to Windsor next month.
More than 30 elementary school and secondary school squads are confirmed for the tournament, which will feature boys and girls teams.
Lajeunesse high school and the University of Windsor will play host to games for the event, which runs May 8-10.