The Adobe Flash Player is required to view this multimedia interactive. Get it here.

Gems’ first coach played 10 years in NHL

Bombers owner forges ahead with re-entry plans

Unknown OSU kicker thrust into spotlight
Updated 2 min. ago
Cribbs expects to play Sunday against Lions
3:05 p.m.
OSU looking to extend winning streak over UM
11/21/09
Ohio State-Michigan series has slipped in stature
11/21/09
Wittenberg men's basketball:Tigers advance to Gettysburg finals
11/21/09
> More sports headlines

Staff reports Updated 12:17 PM Monday, June 15, 2009

DAYTON — The Dayton Gems will have a former NHL player calling the shots when they open their inaugural IHL season this fall.

John Marks, who played 10 seasons for the Chicago Blackhawks, will be the Gem’s head coach, the club announced today, June 15.

“You guys have a coach. I am truly grateful for the opportunity and I look forward to a great season,” Marks said, according to a press release.

Marks’ official title is head coach/director of player personnel. His first day on the job will be July 1.

Marks scored 112 goals and 163 assists in his NHL career.

After retiring in 1988, Marks began his pro coaching career in the IHL with the Kalamazoo Wings, serving for four seasons.

Marks has made the playoffs 15 times as a coach. Since 1993, Marks has coached in the ECHL, spending the majority of that time in Charlotte and Greenville.

“Marks’ record speaks for itself. Add to that, he is a good guy, and that makes a winning combination for the Gems. Now he just needs to bring us a championship and we’re all set,” said co-owner Ryan Yerrick. “All kidding aside, we expect to have a tough product on the ice this season, and Rich (Bruner) and I believe Marks will help deliver what we want to see.”

Ticket info

The Gems will host a “Pick Your Seat” night on Thursday, June 18, from 5-8 p.m. at Hara Arena.

Gems staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Share this article

ADD COMMENT

Comments feed

I wonder if the coach will hire his brothers Groucho and Harpo.

Al Beaule
12:25 PM, 6/17/2009

REPORT ABUSE

i am sure they will slap a new coat of paint on one of the walls and call it a major renovation.

tj
5:29 PM, 6/16/2009

REPORT ABUSE

Looks like the Wampler kin are out in force.

zeke
1:24 PM, 6/16/2009

REPORT ABUSE

So, Gordy, you're uncomfortable at Hara? Hockey's not an elitist sport. It's cold & gritty. There's no better venue in Dayton for hockey than Hara. Hara's the home for hockey.. welcome home !!!!

Tori
12:17 PM, 6/16/2009

REPORT ABUSE

From what I can tell, the cheapest prices are similar to the Bombers. I hope that they do well enough in Haroach Arena to encourage the city to build downtown. The Wamplers will never invest enough more than to just get by.

Mr. Sports
11:33 AM, 6/16/2009

REPORT ABUSE

There are 10 additional comments

SHOW ALL

We welcome your comments. Please remember this is a public forum and behave appropriately. Your comments must conform to our visitor's agreement.