From: Patrick Armstrong, Director of Communications
(713) 361-7920 (Direct Line)
Scott Henninger, Communications Manager
(713) 361-7930 (Direct Line)
Thursday, July 10, 2008

MINNESOTA WILD NAMES MATT SHAW ASSISTANT COACH

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Wild President and General Manager Doug Risebrough today announced the National Hockey League (NHL) club has named Matt Shaw an Assistant Coach for the 2008-09 season.

“In addition to his video responsibilities this season, Matt helped plan strategically for practices and games, worked with players in a teaching capacity, was regularly on the ice with the team and also assisted Jacques behind the bench at times,” said Risebrough. “Over the last year it became clear that Matt’s role and responsibilities were best suited to be an Assistant Coach in the NHL.”

Shaw, 42 (10/11/65), was named the Wild’s Video Coach on July 10, 2007 and was responsible for pre-scouting opposing teams along with analyzing each game as it occurred during the 2007-08 season, his first in the NHL. He became Assistant Coach, Video in October 2007. Shaw has been behind the bench for more than 1,000 professional and collegiate hockey games in his coaching career and spent seven seasons as an Assistant Coach for the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League (AHL), the Wild’s primary development affiliate prior to joining Minnesota’s coaching staff. He also served as Assistant General Manager for Houston and helped lead the Aeros to a record of 273-215-74 (.552) in his seven years with the organization.

Prior to joining Houston, Shaw served as Head Coach of the Quad City Mallards of the United Hockey League (UHL) 1999-2000 and two seasons as an Assistant Coach in Quad City (1995-97). He was also an Assistant Coach with the Chicago Wolves of the International Hockey League (IHL) in 1998-99 and served as Head Coach of the ECHL’s Mobile Mysticks in 1997-98.

The Phoenix, Ariz.-native began his coaching career with his alma mater, Colorado College, where he served as an Assistant Coach for the Tigers from 1989-92. His primary responsibilities were coordinating practices and recruiting. During his tenure, Shaw was the youngest recruiter on the Division I NCAA circuit. He played 138 collegiate games with U.S. International University (1985-88) and Colorado College (1988-89) and was a tri-captain with the Tigers during his senior season and earned All-WCHA Honorable Mention.

Shaw and his wife, Carolyn, have a daughter, Clare, and a son, Hayden. The family resides in Woodbury, Minn.

Aeros' season ticket packages are available now and can be ordered today by calling (713) 974-PUCK. Packages include the popular “Elite Fleet” which includes 40 games for the price of 30. Mini-plans include “25 for 22” and “15 for 13” and also come along with great season ticket holder benefits. Voucher Books are also a great way to save on tickets. These 10-packs are available, and by picking one, fans will receive two free tickets to the game of their choice!

-- HOUSTON AEROS --