Hepditch Rejoining REDS
(FREDERICTON, NB) Josh Hepditch (BRSS’10, BEd’11) is coming home.
The Fredericton native and former UNB student-athlete has been hired as the associate coach of the REDS’ men’s hockey team.
“I’m excited to return to Fredericton and rejoin the UNB family,” said Hepditch. “The men’s hockey program has earned the reputation as being the best in the country and I look forward to continuing the tradition that has been built here.”
Hepditch succeeds Rob Hennigar as the REDS’ associate coach. Hennigar was promoted to head coach earlier this year.
“We’re extremely excited to have Josh and his family rejoin our team and return home to Fredericton,” said Hennigar. “When searching for a new associate coach, Josh was at the top of the list. As a former player and national champion, he understands what the program and culture is all about and brings a wealth of experience to our group.”
Hepditch played four seasons with the Moncton Wildcats of the then Quebec Major Junior Hockey League before playing five, 2006-07 through 2010-11, with the then Varsity Reds.
He was part of UNB’s national championship teams in 2007, 2009, and 2011, and Atlantic University Sport title teams in 2008 and 2011.
“Being a UNB alumni and three-time national champion has given me experience that not a lot of other coaches have,” he said. “In addition to my time at UNB, I’ve had the opportunity to coach in some great places. Most recently, a long run with one of the top organizations in the Canadian Hockey League.”
Hepditch spent the past seven seasons as an assistant with the Wildcats, where he was responsible for all aspects of the team’s defence as well as their power-play and penalty kill units.
“With what he’s been doing the last seven years for the Wildcats it was an easy choice to hire him,” said Hennigar. “A lot of what Josh was doing in Moncton will remain the same here at UNB which makes the transition seamless for him and us, while bringing a fresh perspective and knowledge of the sport.”
Hepditch says he understands the demands of a student-athlete as well as the high expectations that come with being part of the hockey program at UNB.
He says he’s prepared to support the REDS on and off the ice.
“There is always pressure for teams to succeed and that’s what gives you the drive as a coach to be at your best every day,” he said. “I come to the rink every day and try my best and to be present. For me, it’s about the process and winning every day. If the coaches and players can win every day, I like our chances of being successful at the end of the season.”
Hepditch says his coaching style resembles how he played the game and is one based on hard work and enthusiasm.
“This is not only great for our program but the city and UNB, as we bring an alumni home who knows how to win and will contribute to our team and community,” said Hennigar.
Hepditch will assume his role with the REDS on Monday, July 15th.
STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics
PHOTO BY: Cameron Fitch/UNB Media Services