Herauf joins the Stars after spending the previous eleven seasons behind the bench with the Regina Pats (WHL), including three seasons as Head Coach.
After joining the Pats as an Assistant Coach ahead of the 2015/16 season, Herauf helped guide Regina to the 2017 WHL Championship Final and the 2018 Memorial Cup Final.
During his time in Regina, Herauf played a key role in the development of a number of notable players, including Connor Bedard, who was selected first overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2023 NHL Draft.
Herauf was named the club’s 43rd Head Coach in July 2023, compiling a 63-118-23 record over the following three seasons. He guided the Pats through back-to-back rebuilding seasons before leading them back to the playoffs last season.
Prior to his coaching career, Herauf enjoyed a successful playing career spanning eight seasons, including 166 AHL appearances.
Reflecting on his move to Dundee, Herauf said:
“I’ve had many friends who have played in the Elite League, and I’ve known guys who have coached as well, so to me it’s going to be something brand new. Obviously, it’s a pro level compared to the juniors I was coaching in Canada, but for me there’s a lot of familiarity with players in the league. I’m really excited. I’ve always heard great things about the league, and the more I learn about Dundee outside the rink, there’s so many things that are going to open up my eyes, so I can’t wait to get there and experience it all.”
Herauf also outlined the mentality he will bring to the Stars, saying:
“You’re not going to last very long in hockey if you’re just showing up to do an activity. You’ve got to be here to win, and winning takes every day. It’s not just game day, it’s three to four days ahead being prepared for that. I think we have a solid character group that will give us a chance to achieve some of our goals this year.”
On joining Scott Dutertre’s coaching staff, Herauf concluded:
“To me, it’s nothing to do with what Brad Herauf is going to do. Brad Herauf is going to come with a learning mentality and be what I’ve always been, a good teammate. That’s what I’m going to do for Scott and support his ideas. Obviously, there’s only two of us, but we’ve got to be able to challenge each other. I know we have a lot of the same values, and I think all of those things are going to line up perfectly.”
Head Coach Scott Dutertre is looking forward to having Herauf alongside him in Dundee, saying:
“I’m excited to have Brad. I’ve known him for probably eight years now. He’s a really good, high-quality guy, he has a lot of passion and energy, so I’m excited for him to join us, and I think he’s going to be a really valuable asset to our group.”
