A two-time AJHL Coach of the Year, Gord Thibodeau brings an abundance of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to the Fort McMurray Oil Barons Hockey Club.

He began coaching the Oil Barons in 2003-04 after previous coaching duties with AJHL clubs Lloydminster Blazers and St. Albert Saints.  In his first three seasons as the Oil Barons bench boss, Thibodeau led the Oil Barons to the AJHL finals in each year, eventually capturing the AJHL's highest crown in 2005-06. After leading his team to the finals again in 2009, and suffering a heartbreaking loss in Game 7, Thibodeau expects no less than a full-out effort by his players this season in order to continue the team’s commitment to excellence.

With 11 years experience, Coach Thibodeau brings with him great acclaim and numerous awards.  He boasts pleasure from arriving at the rink each day and continues to have a tremendous love of the game.

Thibodeau has not only contributed to the sport of hockey as a coach, but also as a player.  An AJHL hockey veteran, Thibodeau played for four years with the Fort Saskatchewan Traders, and also spent four years with the University of Alberta Golden Bears.  With such strong passion for the game, coaching seems like a natural extension, but it also allows him to give something back to the sport. He commits himself to the game and to the team and expects no less from the players.

"I expect the players to make a commitment to improve and develop," says Thibodeau.  "I want to see them grow and move forward, but our goal remains the same as every year; we want to be the best in the league."

Thibodeau is quick to recognize the importance of the invaluable contributions made by the community.  Support received both corporately and from fans continues to contribute to the success of the Oil Barons Hockey Club.

"We take pride in providing a great product for our fans," says Thibodeau.  "In my opinion, we are already one of the best teams in the league," and the Fort McMurray Oil Barons are eager to prove it. Speed, skill and tenacity are key attributes Coach Thibodeau demands to see from his players.

• Member of the 1983-84 AJHL Champions, Fort Saskatchewan Traders
• W.G. (Bill) Scott Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Defenseman 1983-84
• Trophy named in his honor at the University of Alberta for Golden Bear Hockey Player who demonstrates courage and commitment in extenuating circumstances.
• Coach of 2 Viking Cup Teams
• Coach of Silver and Bronze AJHL All-Star Teams
• AJHL record (still standing) for most assists in one season (74)
• Winner of Coach of the Year two times in the AJHL
• Coached over 80 players who went to careers in the NHL or NCAA
• Coached the Fort McMurray Oil Barons to victory as AJHL Champions in 2005-06
• Coached in over 500 league wins