Heaney back behind the bench

Geraldine Heaney is returning as coach of the Toronto Six after a successful yet somewhat bumpy first season behind the bench.

“I wasn’t too sure what I was getting into, coaching pro hockey is different from coaching minor hockey,” said Heaney, who led the Six to the Premier Hockey Federation title in March.

“But I just enjoyed it so much, I love hockey, I love the sport. I knew it was a good opportunity last year, but I said I’d do it for a year and see where you’re at after that. I’m the type of person where I live for the day.

“But we had a successful season, and that wasn’t the only reason I’m returning. The biggest thing is the people on the team, they’re good players and they’re good people. I really enjoyed it.”

Heaney, 55, led the Six to a 17-5-2 regular-season record and a 3-1 mark in the playoffs that ended with an Isobel Cup win over Minnesota. The Six also named Jessica Turi and Mark Joslin as associate coaches for next season.

Heaney suffered a broken wrist in February while playing in a charity game with Six GM Angela James.

“It was A.J. who did it,” Heaney said, laughing. “She kind of hooked me, and I kept both hands on my stick, thinking she’d let go. But I fell to the ice and hit my wrist.”

Heaney was behind the bench the next day. “I borrowed Angela’s coat to cover up the cast,” she said.