Weeks after leading Surrey Eagles to the BC Hockey League's Fred Page Cup, head coach and general manager Cam Keith is leaving the organization to live closer to family.
The Nelson-born Keith, 43, who coached the Eagles since 2019 and departs after the team's most successful season in a decade, says the move is non-hockey-related.
He noted the high cost of living in Surrey as a reason for his desire to move his young family to either the B.C. Interior or Vancouver Island.
Reached in Las Vegas on a scouting trip, Keith continues to work for the Eagles during the team's transition to a new head coach and GM. It's believed that assistant Scott Gomez, a two-time Stanley Cup winner, is in the running to take over as bench boss, after rejoining the franchise last summer.
News of Keith's exit was posted on the Eagles' website Monday, June 17.
"The entire Surrey Eagles organization want to extend our deepest gratitude towards Cam Keith and his family," raves the webpost, by the Brar family and the hockey organization.
"His leadership over the past five seasons has been the cornerstone of our success, culminating in the remarkable achievement of winning the Fred Page Cup this season."
On May 26 in Penticton, the Eagles celebrated their Cup win, travelled back to South Surrey and then flew to Alberta for a best-of-three series with Brooks Bandits. Surrey lost two straight to the well-rested Bandits in the BCHL's new Rocky Mountain Challenge championship.
The Fred Page Cup was the team's first since 2013.
"Winning the Fred Page Cup is a testament to the dedication and spirit that (Keith) brought to the team," says the post on the Eagles website. "As you move forward onto your new endeavors, know that you will always be a cherished part of the Surrey Eagles family. Your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us for years to come."
