Nashville Predators name Martin Gelinas Director of Player Development

From the Nashville Predators:

Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has named former Predator Martin Gelinas Director of Player Development.

Gelinas will be responsible for following and evaluating prospects drafted by Nashville. The Shawinigan, Quebec native will work with players on all levels throughout the United States, Canada and Europe, assisting them with their maturation process into an NHL player by focusing on nutrition, off-ice workouts and conditioning, practice habits and game performance.

"Martin made a big impact on people within the organization during his time here so this speaks volumes of his professionalism and character," Poile said. "We have always been a team that develops players through the draft which makes this an important position within our organization. We will depend on Martin and his experience, work ethic and professionalism to help develop our prospects into NHL players."

"During the last few years of my playing career, working with the younger players was something I really got a lot of enjoyment out of," Gelinas said. "It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m excited to be a part of the Predators organization again and have the chance to work with David Poile and his tremendous staff."

Gelinas only played one season in Nashville (2007-8), but drew rave reviews for his leadership and ability to connect with younger players. In particular, he's been credited with having an influence on Jordin Tootoo, inspiring him to become a more complete player. That was Tootoo's best season so far, and his reversion this last year came as a disappointment.

The press release indicates that Gelinas will join the Predators at the NHL Entry Draft in Montreal next week and attending the team's condition camp in early July, then work out of Calgary, Alberta with prospects throughout the organization.