The Glasgow Clan’s search for a new head coach should be straightforward. Following the dismissal of Corey Neilson on January 27th, the team was on a downward spiral, with only two wins in their previous eight games.
January saw a string of disheartening losses for the Clan, including significant defeats against the Coventry Blaze, Manchester Storm, and a shutout against the Cardiff Devils. This poor performance led to growing dissatisfaction within Braehead Arena, with underperforming players and anxious fans fearing another lost season.
However, the team’s fortunes have dramatically improved since Neilson’s departure. Under interim leadership, the Clan achieved a 12-9-4 record (including playoffs), secured a 26-point lead over the Dundee Stars, and finished just two wins shy of a top-six spot. Despite a league-worst 16% powerplay conversion and an eighth-ranked penalty kill, Glasgow managed to regain respectability. They secured crucial wins against rivals like the Dundee Stars and Fife Flyers (with a 5-1 record against them) and capitalized on opportunities against top contenders.
A key figure in this resurgence is Mike Sirant, a 67-year-old with a singular previous season of professional head coaching experience.
Who is Glasgow Clan Interim Head Coach Mike Sirant?
Sirant joined the Clan as an assistant coach in July 2024. He spent the preceding season away from coaching, having dedicated the previous thirty years to the University of Manitoba. During his tenure with the Bisons, Sirant amassed 332 regular-season wins, becoming the program’s most successful coach.
He also had a two-year stint leading the Danish National Team, guiding them to a then-record tenth-place finish at the 2007 IIHF World Championship. Prior to joining the Clan, his only other professional head coaching experience was a brief period in 1999 with the Austrian team VEU Feldkirch.
Why Should the Glasgow Clan Hire Mike Sirant Permanently?
The recent results and performances under Sirant speak volumes. Before Neilson’s exit, the Clan’s season appeared destined to miss the playoffs outright but lack the quality to make a significant impact if they did qualify.
With Sirant at the helm, the team looks transformed. The Clan have rediscovered their confidence, heavily relying on goaltender Sami Aittokallio, and are playing with renewed intensity. They are more physical, more direct, and more competitive across the entire ice.
Sirant has also managed to elevate the performances of his key players. Tristin Langan finished the season strongly, with eight points (two goals, six assists) in his last six games. On defense, Joe Hazeldine showed noticeable improvement both with and without the puck.
In essence, Sirant has revitalized the team spirit in Glasgow. With the Clan heading to Playoff Finals Weekend for the first time in 12 years, they are once again able to dream big. If he desires the position, Mike Sirant is the clear and obvious choice for the Glasgow Clan’s head coaching vacancy.
