The Acadie-Bathurst Titan says their team is trying to get back to normal after their newly-hired assistant coach admitted to driving under the influence with players in the vehicle.
Pierre Bergeron shocked fans from across the Maritimes when he left the team after the accusations came to light.
“I wasn't a good role model that night, and I deeply wish to have a second chance in the world of hockey,” said Bergeron on Facebook and Twitter on Wednesday.
That second chance won't be coming in Bathurst. When the team staff found out, Bergeon was suspended for the first two games of the season before resigning.
Because he was hired during the offseason, he didn't coach a single regular season game.
“For us, it's time to move on,” said Titan general manager Sylvain Couturier. “We already replaced Pierre, and we want to focus on the upcoming season.
Bryan Lizotte has replaced Bergeron on the Titan coaching staff, and police have addressed the entire team about the dangers of driving under the influence.
“We brought a police officer here, talked to all the players,” said Couturier. “There were two players involved, but it could have been any of those players.”
Police confirmed the incident occurred on the weekend of Sept. 16, though no charges were laid at that point. They haven't released whether Bergeron will face charges or other penalties in the future.
While fans agree Bergeron and staff made the right decision, they hope it doesn't distract from the season
“Very shocked,” said fan Cory Chiasson. “They've been doing tremendously better for the past five or so years. I mean, they've got to get back up and keep playing.”
The Titan - without Pierre Bergeron - host their home opener Friday night.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Cami Kepke.
