After a tumultuous December, the Weyburn Red Wings are back on track and have made a big decision. After the firing of Wes Rudy back on December 15, assistant coach Kyle Haines was named the interim head coach for the time being.

The Red Wings have tentatively removed the interim tag and will roll with Haines at the helm for the remainder of the season. Haines played three seasons with the Red Wings from 2005-2008 and has called Weyburn home for most of his life. 

"Kyle Haines has been named the head coach for the rest of the season," team president Brent Stephanson stated. "In the two games since the switch over, I think we've seen a definite change in dynamic with our hockey team."

Haines turned 31 back in September and brings a wealth of hockey knowledge and experience to the club. He played pro hockey for six years and wore a letter in college and while playing for the Fife Flyers in Scotland. The former defenceman turned coach will bring a few different philosophies to the Wings.

"Our d-zone has to improve and we need to be harder to play against. We can be a little more assertive on the forecheck, which will create more 5-on-5 scoring chances. It's going to be a gradual learning process, things aren't going to change in a day or two, or even a week or two. It's going to be a slow and steady learning process," Haines said during the weekly Coach's Show. "I've thought a lot about changing the culture and mentality moving forward. We need to focus more on playing on the right side of the puck and not cheating offensively. We have to get back to defence first." 

"A big thing too is just trying to have fun. Getting a good feeling back here in the rink and wanting to come to the rink. If you're coming to the rink with a good attitude and an open mind you're going to learn more and you're going to have more fun. We're trying to focus on getting a good feeling back in here" he said. 

While it is just the first year coaching for Haines, Stephanson said the team will re-evaluate the coaching position in the off-season. The president has put his faith in Haines and is excited to see what the team can do under his tutelage.

"I've known Kyle since he played with the Wings. He's a great young man and has extensive playing knowledge," he said. "He's a very calm young man and I think he's going to relate very well with our young players. I'm excited for the remainder of the season."

Haines will be joined on the bench by Jeff Schaeffer, who has been an assistant coach with the team all season, and by former Red Wing player Tucker Neuberger.