Interim or not, Brent Pope is now the coach of the 2013-2014 Cardiff Devils.
As I see it, Gerad is sacked in terms of his original contract. A contract variation has however probably been put in place to allow him to stay on the books until the remainder of the season in a role that has been created for him. I don’t know if this means his original salary will be honoured, including any support for his testimonial, or the change in terms means a pay cut or the options to relieve him of his duties altogether. Either way it’s a messy situation which has come to a head legally I would suggest.
Franny’s resignation probably speaks volumes of his views on the Gerad situation or that any salary he earned from his own contact has now become void.
The appointment of Cuddy, who I understand is already on the books under the junior programme, will be a direct replacement of Franny. I know little about his ability so no real comment from me here other than two in, two out (coaching)
I am very dubious about the changes but the in fighting having gone public and the underachievement of the season so far has probably warranted a drastic change. I can’t say I’m happy with how this has come about, particularly the treatment of our longest serving Cardiff Devils coach. I recognise though that this is a business and one that is failing on the ice at this time.
This is arguably the biggest decision PR will have made as the owner of the Devils and it’s a decision that will probably make or break him in respect of fans and sponsors alike. Live by the sword, die by the sword Paul. We’ll have to see how this pans out. For the sake our the club though I sincerely hope this works.