Vancouver Canucks bring in former Leafs goalie as a coach

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Daniel Lucente
August 27, 2024 (3:33 PM)

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The Vancouver Canucks AHL affiliate staff has just undergone a major change, as the organization has just hired former Leafs goaltender Justin Pogge.

The Abbotsford Canucks, the AHL affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks, have announced a key addition to their coaching staff, welcoming Justin Pogge as their new Goaltending Coach. At 38 years old, Pogge brings with him a wealth of experience from his recent role as a Goaltending Consultant with the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2023-24 season. His expertise was also sought by Hockey Canada, where he served as a Goaltending Coach for both Canada's World Championship team and the Hlinka Gretzky Cup squad.

Ryan Johnson, the General Manager of the Abbotsford Canucks, expressed his enthusiasm about the new hire.

"We are thrilled to have Justin Pogge join our coaching team. His extensive background as a player in the NHL, AHL, and various international leagues will be invaluable as we continue to develop our goaltending talent here in Abbotsford. I'd also like to take a moment to acknowledge Marko Torenius for his outstanding contribution to our team, and we wish him all the best in his new role in Vancouver."

Justin Pogge, originally from Fort McMurray, Alberta, enjoyed a remarkable 17-year playing career that spanned both North America and Europe. He played 254 regular-season games in the AHL and appeared in 13 Calder Cup Playoff games, representing teams such as the Toronto Marlies, San Antonio Rampage, and Charlotte Checkers. Drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2004, Pogge made his NHL debut with them and later played for the Anaheim Ducks and Phoenix Coyotes. His European career included stints in Italy, Sweden, Slovakia, and Germany.

In his junior hockey days, Justin Pogge was a top goaltender for the WHL's Prince George Cougars and Calgary Hitmen. His performance at the 2006 World Junior Hockey Championships was very impressive, where he posted a perfect 6-0 record and led all goaltenders with a .952 save %, helping Team Canada capture the gold medal.

Source: Hockey Patrol
Canucks organization hires Former Leafs goaltender Justin Pogge

Source: Elite Prospects
Justin Pogge Stats