Flint Firebirds, OHL announce the hiring of new GM George Burnett

By @MichaelCaples –

The Ontario Hockey League has made their selection for who will lead the Flint Firebirds moving forward.

Flint and the OHL have announced that longtime league GM and coach George Burnett will be the Firebirds’ new general manager.

Joe Stefan will remain with the club, serving as assistant general manager and director of player development.

“We are excited and honored to welcome George Burnett to the Firebirds family and to Flint and Genesee County,” said Firebirds president Costa Papista. “George has a wealth of experience and integrity in the hockey community and we look forward to his leadership within our organization.”

Both have signed three-year contracts with the OHL club.

“The League is entrusting George Burnett with the hockey operations of the Flint Firebirds and we believe his experience will provide the players, parents, billets and team staff with stability and expertise,” said David Branch OHL Commissioner in a release. “Burnett will be backed by a strong team in hockey operations, including Joe Stefan who is well known to Flint Firebirds players and families.”

An announcement on the coaching staff is expected soon.

The OHL is overseeing team operations for the Firebirds since the suspension of owner Rolf Nilsen, which was announced on April 6.

Burnett, 54, is a native of Port Perry, Ont. He has served as coach and general manager of the Hamilton Bulldogs, and spent nine years with the Belleville Bulls.