Tributes Pour In From Hockey Community
The news of Jones’ passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the hockey community, reflecting on his contributions as both a player and a coach in various leagues, including the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and the Windsor Spitfires. Senators owner Michael Andlauer expressed his condolences, stating, “For both our current players and for the members of our staff who had the privilege of working with Bob, his loss brings considerable sorrow.”
Jones’ Courageous Battle With ALS
Jones’ diagnosis with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, was made public in January 2023. Despite the devastating prognosis, Jones chose to share his story publicly to help raise awareness of the disease and support research efforts. In an interview with the Ottawa Citizen in January 2023, Jones spoke about his symptoms, which included slurred speech and difficulty finding words.
Lasting Impact on Hockey Community
Throughout his coaching career, Jones made a lasting impact on the hockey community. He spent five years with the Ottawa Senators as an assistant coach and was known for his ability to connect with players and staff alike. D.J. Smith, the former head coach of the Senators, described Jones as a “players’ coach” who was a trusted resource for players in good times and bad.
Fundraising Efforts for ALS Research
In August 2023, Jones’ former colleagues, D.J. Smith and Bob Boughner, organized a fundraiser in Windsor to help raise funds for ALS research. The “All in 4 ALS” event featured an NHL all-star game at the WFCU Centre Arena in Windsor, with players such as Brady Tkachuk, Josh Norris, Alex DeBrincat, Taylor Hall, Adam Henrique, Scott Laughton, and Clayton Keller participating to support the cause.
Legacy of Coaching Excellence
Jones’ coaching career spanned over 25 years, with stops in the OHL with Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, Toronto St. Mike’s, Sudbury, Windsor, and Oshawa. He won two Memorial Cup Championships in 2009 and 2010 as an associate coach for the Windsor Spitfires. Jones’ ability to tell a story and his genuine care for his players and staff will be remembered by all those he touched throughout his life.
Early Life and Playing Career
Bob Jones was born in Windsor, Ontario, and grew up with a passion for hockey. He was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 1989 and spent 10 years playing in different minor leagues, gaining valuable experience that he would later apply to his coaching career.
Transition to Coaching
After retiring from playing, Jones entered the coaching ranks over 25 years ago. He made stops in the OHL with various teams, including Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, Toronto St. Mike’s, Sudbury, Windsor, and Oshawa. Jones’ experience as a player and his ability to connect with young athletes made him an excellent coach who could develop talent and guide teams to success.
Coaching Career Highlights
Throughout his coaching career, Jones achieved several notable accomplishments. He won two Memorial Cup Championships in 2009 and 2010 as an associate coach for the Windsor Spitfires. Jones also spent time as an assistant coach with the AHL’s Texas Stars before joining the Ottawa Senators’ coaching staff in 2018.
Contributions to the Ottawa Senators
During his five-year tenure with the Ottawa Senators, Jones made significant contributions to the team’s success. He was known for his ability to connect with players and help them develop their skills. Jones continued in his duties as an assistant coach until Smith was let go midway through the 2022-23 season, as Jones wanted to be around the team as long as he was healthy enough to do so.
Legacy and Impact
Bob Jones’ legacy extends far beyond his coaching accomplishments. He was known for his kind heart, caring nature, and genuine concern for the well-being of his players and colleagues. Jones’ ability to tell a story and his determination to raise awareness about ALS will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Lasting Impact on the Hockey Community
The hockey community has been deeply impacted by Jones’ passing. Tributes have poured in from across the league, with players, coaches, and fans alike expressing their gratitude for Jones’ contributions to the sportJones’ legacy will continue to inspire future generations of hockey players and coaches to strive for excellence both on and off the ice.