Solcz to Flint, Mitchell takes over as Flyers GM

After six seasons as GM of the Leamington Flyers, Justin Solcz is moving on to the OHL as an assistant coach.

“I’m excited to join the Firebirds and look forward to working with Dave, Paul and the rest of the staff,” Solcz said in a release by the Firebirds. “Being familiar with the Firebirds from my time in Leamington, I’m eager to support both the team’s success and the development of its players. Thank you to the Firebirds organization for this opportunity, I can’t wait to get started.”

Solcz’s departure has opened the door for Flyers head coach Dale Mitchell to take on an expanded role, as he now steps into the position of general manager.

“First and foremost, congrats to Justin,” Mitchell told Powerplay Sports. “He was someone I communicated with almost daily throughout the season to ensure the Flyers were running smoothly. I had no prior coaching experience and was given the opportunity here in Leamington, so I have to thank him for that.”

Mitchell has recorded 150 wins behind the bench and now looks forward to the challenge of managing both coaching and administrative responsibilities. He’ll be supported by Matt Dumouchelle, who takes on the role of assistant general manager.

"The administration side, making sure the paper work is filed properly and contracts are written the right way, scheduling is done, buses are ordered, the food is ready..Justin did a lot of that," Mitchell noted. "We have Matt Dumouchelle who is going to be a big help."

Mitchell also plans to keep in close contact with his predecessor.

“His phone—I'll still be calling him,” he added with a laugh.

The Flyers are set to begin training camp on August 18.