Reports: Head coaching rumours begin

Rumours and speculation over who the Saint John Sea Dogs are considering for their head coaching position have begun.

According to Craig Eagles, who broadcasts QMJHL games on Rogers TV, Marty Williamson's name has popped up.

As per two sources Marty Williamson's name continues to surface for vacant coaching job #SJSeaDogs

— Craig Eagles (@Eags37) August 1, 2017

Williamson has over a decade of head coaching experience in the OHL, leading the Barrie Colts from 2004 to 2010 and the Niagara IceDogs from 2010 until his firing in 2016 (he was also the general manager in Niagara). He reached the OHL playoffs every season and appeared in the league final twice, losing both times.

Meanwhile, Jon Goyens, the head coach of the Lac St-Louis Lions, is expected to interview for the position, according to a report.

On m'a informé que Jon Goyens, coach des Lions du Lac St-Louis, aura une entrevue cette semaine pour le poste d'entraîneur-chef des Sea Dogs

— Charles Lalande (@CharlesLalande_) August 1, 2017

The Lions have been one of the best midget AAA programs in the country over the past five years or so. The club has developed a significant amount of QMJHL talent, including Sea Dogs forward Joe Veleno.

Goyens is an intriguing candidate because he is used to coaching younger players, which would match well with Saint John's projected roster for the next few seasons. He does have some QMJHL experience, acting as an assistant coach with the Lewiston Maineiacs (RIP) in 2008-09.

Other logical candidates for the head coaching job include current Sea Dogs assistant coach Jeff Cowan and long-time Moncton Wildcats assistant Fabian Joseph. Joseph recently stepped down as the head coach of the MHL's Woodstock Slammers and has been involved in QMJHL head coaching rumours for years.

It's worth remembering that the Sea Dogs have an assistant coaching position to fill as well.

Cowan has not been named the Sea Dogs' interim head coach, but he is expected to lead the team until the position is filled.