According to an announcement from the organization, Marc Gaudreault, a central figure in the history of HC Neuchâtel Université, is leaving the Swiss ice hockey club after a tenure spanning approximately twenty years. Throughout his time with HC Uni, the Canadian-born coach held multiple roles, most notably leading the first team—which currently competes in the 1st League—as head coach for 15 seasons.
Transition from Head Coach to General Manager
In 2023, Gaudreault stepped down from his bench duties to transition into the role of general manager. His tenure in management concluded following an international exhibition game in May, which brought the Canadian national team to the Patinoires du Littoral for a matchup against Hungary. According to Gaudreault, that event served as the closing chapter of his career with the club, noting that it felt like a sign of destiny.
“It was the icing on the cake,” Gaudreault said, describing the game against Hungary. “It’s time to leave; I don’t see what I could do better. It was perhaps a sign of destiny.”
Club Leadership and Future Operations
Club President Isabelle Augsburger confirmed that the departure was reached by mutual agreement prior to the expiration of Gaudreault’s contract, which ran through May 31, 2026. Augsburger expressed a desire to keep him within the organization but acknowledged the agreed-upon separation.
“After discussions with Marc, it was agreed that the adventure would not be prolonged,” Augsburger stated. “I would have liked to keep him. He made the club move forward, provided momentum, and was very respected in the community. We thank him infinitely for everything he has done, notably for the young people.”
Reflecting on his time in Neuchâtel hockey, Gaudreault highlighted two distinct promotion campaigns: one with Young Sprinters and another with HC Université.
Following his departure, HC Uni will not directly reappoint the general manager position. Instead, Augsburger confirmed that administrative and junior development responsibilities will be distributed among existing personnel. Kevin Marion has been appointed to oversee administrative operations and manage the junior movement.
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