Dave Cameron Signs Two-Year Extension as 67’s Head Coach for Sixth and Seventh Seasons

Dave Cameron is set to return for another chapter in his coaching career, this time with the Ottawa 67’s in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). The former Ottawa Senators head coach has signed a two-year extension, marking his sixth and seventh seasons at the helm of the 67’s. Fans may find themselves revisiting the lighthearted “6-7” meme, but there’s nothing humorous about the serious commitment Cameron has shown to the team.

Under Cameron’s guidance, the 67’s had a strong season, racking up 47 wins and securing 100 points. Despite the team’s impressive performance, they faced a formidable opponent in the Barrie Colts during the second round of the playoffs and were eliminated in five games.

In an interview with TSN 1200, Cameron expressed that returning was a straightforward decision. He emphasized the importance of the people he works with, saying, “Your best chance for success is the people you work for. I can’t say enough about the organization here in Ottawa and the staff with Jan, Norm and Paul. It’s just been a real pleasure to work here. And throw on top of that, knock on wood, I’ve been blessed with good health and energy.” This enthusiasm for his role is evident, and it’s clear that Cameron values the relationships he’s built within the organization.

When asked about his future in coaching, Cameron reflected on the annual discussions surrounding retirement. “Yeah, obviously, when you’ve been at it as long as I have, the discussion about when you’re going to retire is something you do annually,” he shared. He noted that maintaining his energy level is crucial, stating, “Because I’m at the point where I’m not ready to do anything half-heartedly. And the big thing in that is you have to have good energy, and I love getting up in the mornings. I love going to the rink. I love hockey.” With such passion for the game, it’s no wonder he’s eager to continue coaching.

Cameron’s love for hockey has deep roots, tracing back to his playing days in Prince Edward Island, where he earned a spot on the University of PEI hockey team. His talent caught the eye of the New York Islanders, who selected him in the eighth round of the 1978 NHL Draft. His professional career included stints with the Islanders, Colorado Rockies, and New Jersey Devils.

His coaching journey spans various levels, from Junior B in PEI to the NHL. Cameron’s connection with the Senators began in 2001 when Eugene Melnyk purchased the OHL’s Toronto St. Michael’s Majors, where Cameron was coaching. He later moved to Binghamton to lead the Senators’ AHL team before returning to the Majors, now in Mississauga, for four seasons.

In 2011, Cameron joined the Senators as an assistant coach under Paul MacLean, marking his first NHL coaching role. After MacLean’s mid-season firing in 2014, Cameron took over as head coach and led the Senators to the playoffs, famously known for the Hamburglar Run.

However, his tenure with the Senators was marred by controversy, particularly when Melnyk publicly criticized one of Cameron’s decisions before firing him in 2016. Reflecting on that time, Cameron admitted, “It was hurtful. I didn’t think there was any need for it. I felt like I was fired for three weeks, every day.” Fortunately, those challenges are now behind him, and as he gears up for his 16th season in coaching, Cameron is content in the OHL, ready to make a lasting impact once again.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.