Where is Jay Woodcroft Now? Was Jay Woodcroft Fired? What is Jay Woodcroft Doing Now?
by Mathelene
Updated Dec 15, 2023
Where is Jay Woodcroft Now?
After being fired by the Edmonton Oilers, Jay Woodcroft's future coaching destination may be with the Ottawa Senators. Hockey journalist Steve Simmons suggests that Woodcroft could replace current Senators coach D.J. Smith if changes are deemed necessary. This speculation arises despite the Oilers' recent success under Kris Knoblauch.
Steve Staios, now with the Senators, admired Woodcroft during his time in Edmonton. The Senators, initially seen as playoff contenders, have struggled this season, prompting uncertainties about Smith's coaching future. Woodcroft's familiarity with Staios and his coaching experience make him a potential fit for Ottawa. While it's uncertain if Woodcroft will accept the role, his potential hiring could receive support from Edmonton fans who believe he was let go prematurely.
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Who is Jay Woodcroft?
Jay Woodcroft is a Canadian with a background in professional ice hockey as both a coach and former player. Known for his contributions to the sport, Woodcroft has transitioned into coaching after his playing career. His coaching expertise extends to the professional level, showcasing his passion for developing players and teams.
Beyond his coaching role, Woodcroft also has experience as a former player, contributing to his well-rounded understanding of the game. His dedication to ice hockey is evident in his dual roles as a coach and a player, and his impact continues to be recognized within the Canadian hockey community. Woodcroft's journey reflects his commitment to the sport and his ongoing involvement in shaping the future of ice hockey through coaching.
Full Name
Jay Woodcroft
Date of Birth
August 11, 1976
Nationality
Canadian
Playing Career
University of Alabama-Huntsville, minor league hockey (US and Germany)
Assistant Coaching Roles
San Jose Sharks
Head Coaching Roles
Edmonton Oilers (Interim Head Coach, then extended in 2022)
Notable Achievements
Led Oilers to 50 regular-season wins for the first time since 1986-87
Jay Woodcroft Age
As of 2023, Jay Woodcroft is 47 years old. He was born on August 11, 1976. Jay Woodcroft began his entertainment career as a child actor, making his debut in the 1979 pilot episode of "The Littlest Hobo" at the tender age of under two. This early exposure to the world of acting marked the beginning of his journey in the entertainment industry.
Notably, Woodcroft took on the role of Bobby Moore in the 1986 film "Separate Vacations," showcasing his versatility in front of the camera. These early experiences in film and television demonstrate Woodcroft's engagement with the arts from a young age. While he later pursued a career in professional ice hockey, his early foray into acting adds an interesting layer to his diverse background, illustrating the multifaceted nature of his talents and interests throughout his life.
Jay Woodcroft Career
Jay Woodcroft's journey in ice hockey began after completing four seasons at the University of Alabama-Huntsville. He then spent four seasons playing minor league hockey in the United States and another in the German Oberliga. Transitioning to coaching, Woodcroft joined the Detroit Red Wings in 2005 as a video coach, contributing to their 2008 Stanley Cup win.
Subsequently, he became an assistant coach for the San Jose Sharks under Todd McLellan. After a brief hiatus in 2015, Woodcroft and McLellan reunited in Edmonton as assistant coaches for the Oilers. In 2018, he took on the role of head coach for the Bakersfield Condors, the Oilers' AHL affiliate, achieving success in the Pacific Division.
Woodcroft became the interim head coach for the Oilers in February 2022 and signed a contract extension in June. Unfortunately, he was let go in November 2023 due to the team's 3-9-1 start, replaced by Kris Knoblauch.
Was Jay Woodcroft Fired?
Yes, Jay Woodcroft was fired as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers. Despite a successful history, including leading the team to 50 regular-season wins, he was let go with a 3-9-1 record early in the season. Kris Knoblauch took over as the new coach, leading the team to a 6-3-0 record in his first nine games.
Speculation now suggests that Woodcroft might join the Ottawa Senators as their coach, following his dismissal from the Oilers. The decision to fire Woodcroft has sparked debate, with some feeling it was premature given his past achievements with the team.
What is Jay Woodcroft Doing Now?
As of now, Jay Woodcroft's future plans are uncertain. After being fired as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, there's speculation that he might become the next coach for the Ottawa Senators, as suggested by hockey journalist Steve Simmons. Despite the success of his successor, Kris Knoblauch, Woodcroft's coaching abilities are still highly regarded.
It remains to be seen if Woodcroft will accept a coaching position with the Senators or explore other opportunities in the NHL. As of now, he is not currently coaching any team, and his next career move is awaited by fans and hockey enthusiasts.
Where is Jay Woodcroft Now? - FAQs
Yes, Jay Woodcroft was fired as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers on November 12, 2023.
Kris Knoblauch replaced Jay Woodcroft as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers.
Jay Woodcroft started as a video coach for the Detroit Red Wings in 2005, winning the Stanley Cup in 2008. He later became an assistant coach for the San Jose Sharks before joining the Edmonton Oilers.
Jay Woodcroft was fired due to the Oilers' disappointing start with a 3–9–1 record in the 2023-24 season.
As of now, Jay Woodcroft's future coaching plans are uncertain, and he is not currently coaching any team after his departure from the Edmonton Oilers.