In a stunning development that has taken the hockey world by surprise, Adams Foote, assistant coach of the Vancouver Canucks, has resigned from his position, effective immediately. The 53-year-old former NHL defenseman and Olympic gold medalist cited pressing family health concerns as the primary reason for his sudden departure. The decision comes just weeks before the start of the Canucks’ pre-season training camp, leaving a notable void in the team’s coaching staff as they prepare for the 2025–26 NHL season.
A Respected Voice Behind the Bench
Foote joined the Canucks in January 2023, brought in by head coach Rick Tocchet as part of a broader coaching overhaul. The two had previously worked together in Colorado, and Tocchet had long praised Foote’s defensive mind, character, and leadership.
Since joining the Canucks, Foote played a crucial role in reshaping the team’s defensive strategy. Under his guidance, the Canucks saw improvements in their goals-against average, penalty kill efficiency, and defensive zone structure. Players such as Quinn Hughes, Filip Hronek, and Noah Juulsen all credited Foote for helping them refine their positional play and maturity on the ice.
Foote’s hands-on coaching style and championship pedigree made him a popular figure not only in the locker room but also among the fans and media. His resignation comes as a shock to many within the organization.
Statement from Adams Foote
In a written statement issued Thursday morning via the Canucks’ official channels, Foote explained his decision:
“After much consideration and with a heavy heart, I have decided to step away from my role as assistant coach with the Vancouver Canucks. This is not a decision I take lightly, but due to emerging health concerns within my immediate family, I need to be present at home and prioritize my responsibilities there.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Canucks organization, especially Rick Tocchet, the coaching staff, management, and most of all the players. It’s been an honor to work with such a dedicated group. I believe in this team’s future, and I will be cheering them on from afar.”
The Canucks organization has expressed its full support for Foote’s decision, emphasizing the importance of family and personal well-being above all.
Canucks Management Reacts
General Manager Patrik Allvin and Head Coach Rick Tocchet addressed the media shortly after the announcement. Tocchet appeared emotional as he spoke about his long-time colleague and friend.
“Adam is more than just a coach. He’s a brother to me. We’ve known each other for decades and shared the bench during some of the toughest and most rewarding times of our careers,” Tocchet said. “What he brought to our team—discipline, mentorship, and a winner’s mindset—will be hard to replace. But more importantly, we all support his decision 100%. Family comes first.”
Allvin added that the organization will begin the process of finding a replacement “in due time,” but stressed that there will be no rushed decision.
“We are going to be thoughtful and deliberate. Adam leaves big shoes to fill, but we have a strong coaching team in place and plenty of time ahead of camp to make the right choice.”
Impact on the Canucks
Foote’s resignation presents both logistical and emotional challenges for the Canucks as they look ahead to the new season. Over the past two years, the team had developed significant on-ice chemistry and coaching cohesion under the trio of Tocchet, Foote, and assistant coach Sergey Gonchar.
The Canucks’ defense corps had become one of the more disciplined units in the Western Conference, and Foote’s presence was often cited as a reason for the emergence of younger players into reliable NHL contributors.
Quinn Hughes, the Canucks’ captain and top defenseman, released a short statement of his own on social media:
“Footey was instrumental in helping me grow both as a player and as a leader. We’re all going to miss him behind the bench, but we support him 100%. Family always comes first. Wishing him and his family strength and healing.”
With Foote now gone, the organization may look internally for a temporary replacement or consider external candidates with similar experience and defensive acumen.
Foote’s Coaching Journey and Legacy
After a decorated playing career spanning over 1,100 NHL games with the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche and Columbus Blue Jackets, Foote transitioned into coaching in the late 2010s. He served in developmental and assistant roles before taking over as head coach of the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL, where he coached his sons, Callan and Nolan Foote.
His brief tenure as Rockets coach showcased his ability to connect with young players, instilling a professional mindset and strong work ethic. That experience, combined with his Stanley Cup-winning background (1996, 2001), made him a natural fit in Vancouver—a team built around a core of young, talented players.
Tocchet’s decision to bring him in during a midseason overhaul in 2023 was widely regarded as a turning point in the Canucks’ culture shift. Over two seasons, Foote became a vital part of the coaching identity in Vancouver.
What’s Next for the Canucks?
As the Canucks head into the final phase of their off-season preparations, they’ll need to make decisions not only about roster moves but also about filling Foote’s role on the bench.
Some possible replacement scenarios include:
Promoting from within: Names like Jeremy Colliton (head coach of Abbotsford Canucks) have been floated as potential internal options.
Hiring a veteran coach: The team could look for someone with NHL experience to maintain the strong development track record.
Redistributing responsibilities: Tocchet and Gonchar may take on additional duties in the short term if no immediate hire is made.
Regardless of the approach, the team will need to ensure that Foote’s departure doesn’t derail the momentum they’ve built over the past two seasons.
Fans Show Support
News of Foote’s departure quickly spread across social media and fan forums, with a mix of shock, disappointment, and support.
“He was such a stabilizing voice for our defense,” wrote one user on Reddit’s r/Canucks page. “You could tell the players respected him.
I hope everything turns out okay for him and his family.”
