Edmonton Oilers Former Head Coach Jay Woodcroft sent a heartfelt appreciation to the Current Head Coach Kris Knoblauch and he also donated $10 million for the..
In a rare and touching display of sportsmanship, former Edmonton Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft has issued a heartfelt message of appreciation to current head coach Kris Knoblauch, coupled with a $10 million donation to support the long-term success of the Oilers organization and its surrounding community.
Woodcroft, who served as head coach from 2022 to late 2023, was instrumental in reinvigorating the team’s culture and helped guide them to the postseason during his tenure. Despite his departure from the bench, his connection to the franchise has clearly remained strong.
In a statement released Tuesday, Woodcroft commended Knoblauch’s leadership and vision, emphasizing his respect for the way Knoblauch has embraced the role since taking over mid-season in 2023.
“Kris stepped into a high-pressure position with grace and clarity,” Woodcroft said. “He’s brought fresh energy, accountability, and calm leadership to a locker room full of elite talent. I’m proud to see how this team has evolved under his guidance.”
The $10 million donation will be distributed across several critical initiatives:
1. Player Development & Performance Innovation
A portion of the donation will go toward advanced analytics systems, recovery technology, and performance labs to help optimize player training and health.
2. Mental Health & Wellness
Recognizing the increasing pressure in professional sports, Woodcroft has earmarked funds to establish full-time wellness support for players and staff—including psychologists, counselors, and mindfulness coaches.
3. Youth Hockey & Accessibility
Perhaps most meaningfully, a significant amount will support youth hockey programs in Edmonton and rural Alberta, ensuring access to coaching, equipment, and ice time for underprivileged kids.
“Hockey gave me everything,” said Woodcroft. “This is my way of giving back and making sure the game continues to grow—from grassroots to the NHL.”
Knoblauch, in his response during a post-game press conference, expressed deep gratitude for the gesture.
“I have the utmost respect for Jay,” Knoblauch said. “His legacy here is still felt. For him to reach out not only with kind words, but with real investment in our future, speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the sport.”
Oilers CEO and President of Hockey Operations Jeff Jackson called the donation “a transformative gift,” noting that the organization plans to launch the “Woodcroft Leadership & Development Initiative” in honor of the former coach’s support.
A Coaching Bond Beyond the Bench
While the coaching world can often feel competitive and cutthroat, this moment serves as a reminder of the deep bonds and mutual respect that can exist among leaders in the game.
Woodcroft, who is currently pursuing philanthropic work and mentoring young coaches across North America, says he has no immediate plans to return to the NHL but remains a passionate advocate for the sport and its future.
“The Oilers are in great hands,” he concluded. “Kris Knoblauch is the right leader for this team, and I’ll be rooting for them—every shift, every game, every round.”