Jim Bedard Goaltending Coach

Bedard enters his 16th season as the Red Wings’ goaltending coach. In his position, Bedard works with goaltenders at every level within the team’s system, splitting time between Detroit, Grand Rapids and Toldeo. He also scouts goaltenders currently playing in the minors, as well as the junior and college ranks. Bedard has contributed to three Stanley Cup championships during his time with the Red Wings (1998, 2002 and 2008).

Bedard played his junior hockey for the Sudbury Wolves of the Ontario Hockey League and was drafted by the Washington Capitals in the 1976 entry draft with their sixth selection (91st overall). He played in the Washington organization for five seasons, two of which were spent at the National Hockey League level. His NHL statistics include 73 games played, a 17-40-13 record, a 3.94 GAA and one shutout. Bedard spent the majority of his playing career with the Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League, but also played for the Cincinnati Stingers (CHL), Rochester Americans (AHL), Tulsa Oilers (CHL) and Dayton Gems (IHL). Following his time in Washington, Bedard spent 14 seasons in Europe playing for TPS in Turku, Finland.

At the conclusion of his playing days, Bedard began his coaching career working with goalies in the Ontario Hockey League. He worked as a goaltending coach for the Niagara Falls Thunder, before moving on as an assistant coach with the Erie Otters. In addition, he served as a goaltending consultant for various elite league teams in Europe.

Bedard, 55, spends the off-season in Windsor, Ontario, with his wife, Arja. The couple has one daughter, Seija.