One thing we know about the coaching fraternity is that unless you’re fortunate to be an ex-pro who transitions right into a well paying coaching gig, your career trajectory is likely going to involve little pay, relocating every few years, lack of job security, and stiff competition for employment.

At our 2016 Hockey Coaches Conference in Toronto, Dallas Eakins joined our MC Ryan Pinder onstage to share his Coaching Journey in an intimate and candid interview. While Eakins does come from a playing background, his rise to becoming the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers was not an easy one. His departure from the Oilers was likely even more challenging, although he points out in his interview that it was also a blessing in some ways.

“This isn’t for everyone, nor should it be. This is my process, this is what I believe.”

Since his departure from Edmonton, Eakins worked hard to earn a spot back in the NHL head coaching ranks. He coached Anaheim's AHL affiliate, the San Diego Gulls, while waiting for his opportunity to elevate to the big club. During that time we also had the opportunity for Eakins to share what he believes comes first, Character or Leadership, where the bench boss explains his process on building the foundations of a team in his dressing room.

“Players are never going to care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

Find out what has worked for Eakins, who has over a decade of head coaching experience in the NHL. 

Eakins' full presentation is available at The Coaches Site, along with hundreds of other presentations from hockey’s top coaches and leaders. 

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