The Vancouver Giants search for a new assistant coach had them searching across the country, but in the end they just ended up going across the rink. Chad Scharff, who played for the Giants for five season from 2002 until 2007 was named as Craig Bonner’s replacement today at a press conference.

“This appointment is really about keeping the job within the Giants family,” said Giants GM Scott Bonner.

Scharff was released from the Giants as a 20-year-old as the team was over the Western Hockey League limit of overagers, but at the time indicated an interest in getting into the coaching game. Scharff returned home to Alberta to play Junior A but quickly returned to the Lower Mainland to begin working as an assistant coach in the Minor Hockey ranks.

But the determining factor in the hiring may have been Scharff’s familiarity with the Giants’ systems and the strong work ethic he was known for during his career.

“Chad knows our routines, our systems and our culture, which made him a good fit and a worthy candidate,” said Head Coach Don Hay.

Scharff replaces Craig Bonner who left his dual role as assistant coach and general manager to take over the Kamloops Blazers as GM.