The Western Hockey League's Vancouver Giants announced on Wednesday afternoon that Troy G. Ward has been relieved of his duties as Head Coach. Ward in his first year in charge lasted just 25 games while struggling to a 9-16 record.

"Obviously with where we are in the standings, it just wasn't working with Troy," said Giants General Manager Scott Bonner. "This is the unfortunate part of sports, but we thought change was needed. We wish Troy all the best in the future."

Assistant Coach Matt Erhart has been named the club's Interim Head Coach while Strength and Conditioning Coach Ian Gallagher and Skills Coach Yogi Svejkovsky will serve as assistants.

The Giants are in the midst of a four-game Alberta road trip that has them in Lethbridge on Wednesday evening before visiting Edmonton and then Calgary over the weekend.