Phil Svoboda introduced as new GM of Lexington

Phil Svoboda introduced as new GM

of the Lexington Leg Hounds

June 1st, 2011

The AFHL Commissioner hired Phil Svoboda as the new coach and GM of the Lexington Leg Hounds on Tuesday, bringing in an experienced fantasy hockey veteran to replace former GM Gary Megibben.

“I’m very excited and honored to have been selected as the new coach and GM of the Lexington Leg Hounds,” Svoboda said. “This club has a great deal of potential and I look forward to building upon the foundation that Garry Megibben has laid.”

Megibben was dismissed as the Leg Hounds’ GM shortly after the AFHL playoffs concluded, after holding the job for two years in which the team failed to make the playoffs. He met with AFHL commissioner for a two-minute meeting, and said he was not given a complete explanation for his dismissal.

“Sometimes your senses tell you things,” Megibben said in a telephone interview from his home. “Sometimes you get the feeling that you’re not as appreciated as you once were, and I had that feeling.”

Lexington increased its point total in the second year of Megibben’s two AFHL seasons, but is still looking to make the playoffs for the first time in AFHL history.

“These decisions are always tough to make, but we felt strongly that it was the right time to make a change,” AFHL Commissioner Anthony Furino said. “The Lexington franchise needs to go in a new direction with a fresh approach and philosophy as it relates to the GM and coaching position. The entire AFHL organization would like to thank Garry for his hard work and service to this franchise and wish him all the best in the future.”

Furino said a new voice was needed.

“Peter Svoboda brings experience along with a different approach to the game,” he said. “I am very excited that Peter is taking over this franchise. He is a winner with extensive experience in fantasy hockey, and I am confident he will get the most out of this hockey club.”

There is some very good talent in Lexington, including All-Star goalie Carey Price, defenseman John-Michael Liles, and forwards Nicklas Backstrom, David Krejci, and Derek Roy.

Veteran forward Cory Stillman said these players need the right guidance with a better supporting cast.

“Basically, what me and Sergei [Samsonov] have been saying — we have to play with more passion… We have to stop blaming everybody and get a good look at ourselves in the mirror — and if we’re willing to do a little more, it’s going to go a long way.”

Svoboda said he’s going to be tough on the players.

“I think that you have to be tough on players,” Svoboda said. “I also believe in the human side of things. I think if you can get to the human side, you can be tough. But I’ve never felt more ready for a challenge than I do today, and I think that’s largely because I have a lot to prove and I recognize that.”

The Lexington Leg Hounds team name will be changed to the Twin City Vikings.

Other team names that were changed this offseason:

Calgary Hitmen >> Comox Valley Hitmen

Vancouver Heroes >> Pittsburgh Heroes (moved into American Conference)

Los Banos Wolves >> Lakehead Thunderwolves (moved into Canadian Conference)

London Mustangs >> Windsor Mustangs

Hollywood Stars >> … still pending …