COLORADO AVALANCHE HEAD COACH JARED BEDNAR ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION DATE THAT LEAVES FANS IN TEARS
denver, april 4, 2025 — in a stunning and emotional announcement that rocked the hockey world, colorado avalanche head coach jared bednar has revealed that he will step down at the conclusion of the 2024-25 nhl season. the news, delivered in a heartfelt press conference at ball arena, left players, staff, and fans visibly emotional, marking the end of an era defined by resilience, brotherhood, and championship glory.
“this was not an easy decision,” bednar said, holding back tears. “i’ve given everything i have to this organization and these players. but the time feels right — for me, and for the team to start a new chapter.”
bednar, who took over the avalanche in 2016, will go down as the winningest coach in franchise history. under his leadership, colorado transformed from a bottom-tier team into perennial contenders, capturing the stanley cup in 2022 and solidifying their place as one of the nhl’s elite.
the 52-year-old coach emphasized that his decision wasn’t based on burnout or behind-the-scenes issues, but rather a deep, personal reflection on his time in denver and a desire to prioritize family and life outside hockey.
“i’ve missed birthdays, anniversaries, first games, and a lot of life moments,” he said. “i want to be there now. i owe that to my family.”
the announcement caught even some players by surprise. captain gabriel landeskog, who’s been with bednar since day one, was visibly emotional.
“he changed our lives,” landeskog said. “he believed in us when no one else did. he made us believe in ourselves. it’s hard to imagine this team without him.”
bednar’s departure will also mark the end of one of the most successful coaching tenures in recent nhl history. from his calm demeanor behind the bench to his masterful tactical adjustments, he became not just a coach, but a symbol of colorado’s identity.
fans flooded social media with tributes, videos, and emotional posts, many saying they “grew up with bednar behind the bench” and crediting him for some of the best moments of their lives as avalanche supporters.
the avalanche front office has not yet named a successor, though general manager chris macfarland praised bednar’s legacy and promised the franchise would honor him throughout the remainder of the season.
“jared will always be part of this family,” macfarland said. “we’re going to finish this season strong for him. and we’re going to celebrate the incredible run he’s had.”
as the avalanche gear up for a final playoff push, the team and its fans are rallying behind their beloved coach for one last ride — one final chase for the cup with the man who helped bring it home.
“we’re going to give him everything,” said nathan mackinnon. “one last run. one last chance to say thank you the best way we know how.”
for avalanche nation, it’s not just the end of a chapter — it’s the end of a legacy. and no one is ready to say goodbye.
