Färjestad BK has appointed Cam Abbott as its new head coach following the dismissal of Jörgen Jönsson. The 42-year-old returns to Sweden after coaching in North America, aiming to inject energy into the struggling SHL team. Sport director Rickard Wallin praised Abbott's experience and enthusiasm for the role.
Färjestad BK, a prominent team in Sweden's SHL league, made a significant coaching change this week. Jörgen Jönsson, who had returned to the club in the summer and signed a four-year contract, was relieved of his duties despite the short tenure. The decision came after a poor start to the season, with the team facing challenges in converting opportunities into goals.
Christer Olsson stepped in as interim head coach for the recent game against Djurgården, but the club quickly moved to appoint Cam Abbott as the permanent replacement. Abbott, previously head coach of Rögle BK and most recently with the Chicago Wolves—farm team for the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes—was fired from that role in December. Now 42, he is en route to Sweden and expected to lead practice on Wednesday morning.
"I am charged and inspired for the task. It is definitely a challenge," Abbott told the club's website, emphasizing the need for optimism, unity, and clear direction in the locker room. Sport director Rickard Wallin highlighted Abbott's fit for the team: "He is a very clear coach who wants to play energetic and forward-leaning hockey, with great SHL experience and time in North America." Wallin noted that Olsson, who returns to his assistant role, was fully aware of the temporary nature of his stint and praised his competence.
Reactions within the club have been mixed but supportive. Goaltending coach Erik Granqvist, surprised by the move, contacted Jönsson and reported that the former coach is "okay" but shocked. Granqvist hopes Jönsson, a club icon, returns in another capacity, saying, "Jörgen is enormously hockey-smart and can contribute in many ways." Former Färjestad coach Tomas Mitell, now with Lugano in Switzerland, observed that the team appears more controlled defensively, with strong performances from goaltenders Emil Larmi and Melker Thelin. Despite scoring woes, Mitell reminded that Färjestad still holds a position in the top six. Ole-Kristian Tollefsen will remain involved, previously as J20 coach.
Abbott joins on loan while under contract elsewhere, but Wallin left open the possibility of a longer-term deal. The change aims to bring fresh energy to a team seeking to rebound.