The Rapid City Rush hired Scott Burt on July 7, 2021, as the fourth Head Coach in team history. On June 21, 2022, Burt received the title of General Manager and has held it ever since.
On Friday, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Calgary Flames announced that Burt is taking a medical leave of absence to deal with a possible health issue.
Burt revealed that he has been suffering from headaches and migraines in recent months. Under the guidance of the Rush medical staff and his wife, Audrey, Burt sought medical attention.
“After undergoing tests and consulting with medical professionals on Monday, I have decided to temporarily take a step back and focus on my health,” Burt said in a statement released by the team on Friday. “I would like to thank Jeff Dickerson, TJ Puchyr, Ian Gentile, Todd Mackin and everyone at Spire Hockey for their support, as well as Jared Reid and the entire Rush staff for their continued support. Although this is a new challenge for me and my family, I have been a fighter my entire career and am preparing for what could be the fight of my life.
The 47-year-old British Columbia native is in his fourth season with Rapid City and his twelfthe years of coaching between the professional and major junior levels.
Burt’s coaching career follows a 13-year career as a professional football player. As a player, he is a three-time Kelly Cup champion.
“Our prayers are with Coach Burt, his wife Audrey and daughter Sophie as they face the challenges ahead,” said Jeff Dickerson, co-owner of Spire Hockey. “Burtie has thrown his heart and soul into the Rapid City Rush and his impact cannot be overstated. He is an exemplary coach and the heartbeat of the organization. Spire Hockey will provide all resources available to help him receive the absolute best healthcare available. We ask for respect and privacy for Burtie and his family during this difficult time.”
Assistant coach Peter Drikos, in his second season with the club, will serve as acting head coach for the duration of Burt’s absence, beginning with Friday’s game against the South Carolina Stingrays. Burt did not travel to North Charleston on the Rush.
“Over the past four years, it has been an absolute privilege to get to know Burtie, Audrey and Sophie,” said Rush President Jared Reid. “I am honored to call Burtie one of my best friends. The entire Rush family fully supports Burtie’s decision and knows the team is in good hands while he is away. Anyone who knows Burtie knows how much hockey meant to him, and we all look forward to his return to the bench.”
The Rush organization asks for prayers of strength and respect for the Burt family’s privacy at this time. All of us at The Hockey News wish nothing but the best for Burt and will keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.
