Axemen add Valley native Daniel Turner as Goaltending Coach

Turner to Lead Axemen Goalies and Youth Goalie Programs

The Acadia Axemen have added Valley native, Daniel Turner to their coaching staff as their new goaltending coach. Turner, lives in Halls Harbour with his wife and two kids, and grew up in Kentville, and was the Head Coach of both the U15 and U18 Valley Wildcats between 2010-2015.

 

We asked Dan what drew him to the opportunity at Acadia, and what excites him about the role, he said, “ AUS hockey is one of the best hockey leagues in the country, so it’s a real honour to be part of the coaching staff. Acadia has 3 returning goalies and one new recruit this year, who all come with high praise from Burnsy. It’s a real strength for the program. I’m excited to work with the group and be their person to lean on throughout the year.”

 

Over the past number of years, Turner has strived to increase his expertise through attending a number of world class training events, including:

  • The Roger Neilsen coaching clinic (3x) in Windsor, Ontario
  • Participated in the NHL mentorship program in 2022-23
  • 2023 NHL coaching conference in Nashville
  • 2024 East Coast Goaltending Convention.

Acadia Axemen Head Coach on the addition of Turner to his staff,  “It is very exciting for our program to bring Dan onto our staff. He is an extremely passionate person who intensely studies the position.

To have someone like this who grew up in the Valley makes it a great fit. He knows the importance of the relationship between our team and community. He will be an excellent role model and mentor for our university goalies. At the same time he will have a great impact on our youth goalies in the community. He’s someone that always wants to challenge himself and learn more.”

In terms of what he will bring to the table as the Axemen goalie coach, Turner said, “Goaltending can be a lonely position. Most people in hockey would agree it’s like a different language compared to forward or defencemen. It’s nice for the goalies to have someone on staff they know they can lean on. Someone that can run goalie specific practices each week and an advocate for the group. I hope to fulfill that role for each of our goalies.”