The Winnipeg Jets received some awful news this morning that head coach Rick Bowness’ wife Judy had suffered a seizure and is in hospital. Winnipeg announced this morning that Bowness would be taking a leave of absence to attend to the health of his wife and asked for privacy for him and his family.
For now, it appears as though associate coach Scott Arniel will take over coaching duties until such time that Bowness is able to return. Arniel is familiar with being a head coach as he was the bench boss for the Columbus Blue Jackets from 2010-12, compiling a record of 45-60-18 over the course of two seasons. Since leaving Columbus, Arniel has served primarily as an assistant coach with the New York Rangers (2013-2018) and the Washington Capitals (2018-2022).
Bowness is in his second season behind the Jets bench after spending three seasons with the Dallas Stars, where he took the team to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2020 in what was a feel-good story during the 2020 playoffs that were played in the pandemic bubble.
PHR sends its best wishes to the Bowness family and the Jets community and wishes Judy a speedy recovery.
Always important to remember that these are real people we see on TV and in the sports banter. I think that gets forgotten a lot when we talk sports.
My pet saying is that it’s not a real life game of fantasy hockey. These are human beings, and experience what we all do. There’s drama, tension, tragedy, as well as joy, love, and fun.
My best to Mr. Bowness, and his family. God bless.
All the best and prayers to the Bowness family..
Prayers for a full and speedy recovery.
Positive/healing vibes for Rick and his wife.
Sending best wishes for a full recovery for Mrs. Bowness.