‘I have learned from my prior mistakes’: New Ducks coach Joel Quenneville on handling of Kyle Beach sexual assault case
The Anaheim Ducks announced Joel Quenneville as the 12th head coach in franchise history Thursday.
The announcement marks Quenneville’s return to an NHL bench for the first time since resigning as head coach of the Florida Panthers in October 2021 following a report that detailed his inaction after being made aware of an alleged sexual assault involving former NHL forward Kyle Beach and video coach Brad Aldrich during his time with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Following his resignation from the Panthers, Quenneville was later reinstated by the NHL in July 2024.
At a press availability Thursday to announce his appointment by the Ducks, Quenneville stated, “In nearly four years away from the game, I have learned from my prior mistakes and realized it will be actions over words that demonstrate my commitment to being a better leader.
Quenneville continued, “I’ve spoken to Kyle more than once, including this morning. I’ve apologized to him and stressed how much I regret not following up and taking action. I had to be more aggressive at that time. I fully understand those that question my return to the league. I know words aren’t enough. I will demonstrate that I’m a man of character. We’ll be a team that the community can be proud of, both on and off the ice.”
A three-time Stanley Cup championship with the Blackhawks, Quenneville’s lengthy coaching career also counts head coaching stints with the St. Louis Blues, Colorado Avalanche, and Panthers. The 66-year-old Windsor, Ont., native stands second all-time in NHL coaching wins, holding a 969-572-227 career record.
Added Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek, “Our findings are consistent with Joel’s account that he was not fully aware of the severity of what transpired in 2010. It is clear that Joel deeply regrets not following up with more questions at the time, has demonstrated meaningful personal growth and accountability, and has earned the opportunity to return to coaching.”
Quenneville’s appointment follows the firing former Ducks bench boss Greg Cronin who last month was dismissed after two seasons in Anaheim. The Ducks concluded the 2024-25 campaign with a 35-37-10 record and 80 points, marking the seventh consecutive season in which the club failed to qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs.