PHANTOMS new coach will do things his own way according to Islanders counterpart Jesse Hammill.
Two weeks ago the Bretton-based club appointed Canadian Colin Patterson as a replacement for last season's trophy winning coach Phil David, who was unable to return to the UK due to complications with a work permit.
Patterson (65) comes with a wea
lth of experience in his home country and abroad after more than 30 years in the professional game and it is hoped the former Kootenay Ice coach will be able to build on David's achievements.
And according to Hammill, who grew up in the same Canadian town as the new man, Patterson will be keen to stamp his own identity on the team as soon as possible.
"I played junior hockey against Colin's son Brad as we both grew up in Cranbrook and I know Colin pretty well although I was never coached by him," said Hammill.
"Colin is a very old school coach and will want to take charge of all aspects of the team which should be good for the club as this guy knows what he is doing.
"He has worked with some of the best junior players during his time at Kootenay and a lot of those players are now with NHL clubs so he must know his business.
"Colin will have his own way of doing things which has been very successful in the past.
"I think Phantoms have done well to get him and I wish Colin the very best of luck over here."
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