The Atlanta Thrashers have named Barry Brennan as the team’s new Strength and Conditioning Coach, according to General Manager Rick Dudley. In addition, Ryan Bowness has been promoted to Manager of Player Development and Hockey Administration.

“We are very pleased to add two high-character individuals like Barry and Ryan to our staff,” said Dudley. “They will help bolster our organization and contribute to the overall development of our players.”

Brennan, who will be responsible for all strength and conditioning programs for players and prospects throughout the organization, comes to Atlanta after four seasons as the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Prior to joining the Blue Jackets Brennan served in the same role for their American Hockey League affiliate, the Syracuse Crunch, for four seasons. He also held the position for the Ontario Hockey League’s Ottawa 67’s where the team captured division, conference and league championships, while making two Memorial Cup appearances during his tenure.

The Ottawa, Ontario, native is a Certified Specialist in Sport Conditioning through the International Sports Science Association. He is also a registered coach with Boxing Ontario and the Canadian Boxing Association, and is also recognized by the National Coaching Certification Program, Hockey Canada’s Trainer Certification Program and a professional member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Bowness, who joined the Thrashers as a hockey operations assistant in January, will primarily work with the organization’s amateur and minor-league prospects, assisting with advancing their off-ice training, nutrition and skill development. In addition, he will support the hockey operations staff with stats analysis, scouting coordination and player research.

Prior to joining the Thrashers, the Halifax, Nova Scotia, native played one season with the Ontario Reign of the ECHL in 2008-09. He also spent four seasons at Saint Mary’s University (CIS) from 2004 to 2008 and four seasons with the Brampton Battalion of the Ontario Hockey League from 2000 to 2004.

Bowness was selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the eighth round, 236th overall, of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.

This page last modified Sunday, 07-Nov-2010 16:43:40 AST