Dustin Friesen has been hired as U17 Prep Head Coach and Director of Strength and Conditioning at the Prairie Hockey Academy.

Friesen joins PHA after a long professional playing career. After he was captain of the Swift Current Broncos, he went to the University of New Brunswick before embarking on a lengthy pro career.

I am very excited to announce Dustin Friesen as the new Head Coach of the U17 Prep team at Prairie Hockey Academy," said PHA president Justin Simpkins in a media release. "Dustin understands what it means to be a student-athlete, being a double degree graduate from UNB. He holds his Bachelors in Education as well as Recreation and Sport Studies. He has an incredible passion for young student-athletes and helps them develop in the classroom, as individuals, on the ice and off-ice. This will be evident in his character, work ethic and preparation."

Friesen, originally from Waldheim, Sask., scored 26 goals and 55 assists in 258 Western Hockey League games as a defenceman with the Broncos. He wrapped up a pro career in Germany with ERC Ingolstadt, where he was the captain for the last two seasons. 

"I look forward to having Dustin join our management team at PHA and helping us continue to improve our programming for student-athletes. Dustin and his wife Katherine, along with their three daughters will be a great addition to PHA and the town of Caronport," Simpkins said.