HV71 has parted ways with head coach Anton Blomqvist after two seasons, the club announced on its website. Acting general manager Johan Hult cited a lack of desired sporting progress at team and individual levels. Assistant coach Kris Beech is also leaving his role, while discussions continue for others.
HV71 announced the dismissal of head coach Anton Blomqvist, despite two years remaining on his contract extended to spring 2028. The club stated that the team has not achieved the expected development, having faced two consecutive relegation qualifiers but surviving against Modo and Leksand. Expressen first revealed the news, which HV71 soon confirmed. Johan Hult, acting general manager, explained, “We have not had the sporting development we wanted, neither as a team nor at the individual level, and need to find another path to achieve it. Anton has put in a lot of work during his two years at HV71 and we thank him for that and wish him all the best in the future.” The organization has faced instability, with five different sports directors during Blomqvist's tenure, alongside changes in club director and chairman positions. No successor has been named yet. Kris Beech is stepping down as assistant coach, though talks are ongoing for a different role within the club. Hult noted, “After our evaluation, we believe we can get more out of Kris in other positions in the association and we are in dialogue with him about what that role might look like.” Nicklas Rahm remains as assistant coach, and the club is in discussions with goaltending coach Joel Gistedt amid prior rumors of his departure.
