Aeros name Ward assistant GM

HOUSTON Ward served as an assistant coach with the Aeros during the 2007-08 season and primarily focused on developing the Aeros' young defensive corps. The Aeros' defense allowed a league-low 183 goals and had a team record 32-point improvement. He will continue to serve as an assistant coach with Houston, but will expand his role and oversee the day-to-day hockey operations of the club.

"Troy demonstrated himself as an impressive coach and manager this past season," said Lynn. "It was those qualities and background that made him an ideal candidate for this position."

"I want to thank Tom Lynn and the rest of the Minnesota Wild for giving me this expanded role," said Ward. "I will continue to work to develop NHL players in a winning environment in Houston."

Ward served as the ECHL's senior vice president of hockey operations in 2001-02 and was also the general manager/head coach of the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League in 1993.

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