The Saint John Sea Dogs introduced their new head coach Friday.

Danny Flynn, formerly head coach for St. Francis Xavier University and Moncton Wildcats, is returning to the Maritimes as Saint John’s top dog.

“From the start, we wanted a coach who has a tradition of winning, a great teaching ability, and outstanding communication skills,” says Sea Dogs’ general manager Darrel Young.

Young had been searching for a new head coach since the team parted ways with Ross Yates back in April. Flynn was on vacation when he got the call from Young.

“I like the age group. When I first got into coaching it was to coach junior hockey and it seems to be calling me back,” says Flynn.

Flynn's most recent coaching stint was as an assistant with the Buffalo Sabres of the National Hockey League. However, the organization let the coaches go at seasons end, freeing Flynn up to sign in Saint John.

“When Buffalo made their change we decided that this was the guy we wanted,” says Young.

“It’s a great hockey town, outstanding facility, a tradition of winning,” says Flynn. “I've known Darrell for a long time, I know how passionate and hard-working he is, so there was a good base there and a great opportunity to win.”

Win is all Flynn has done, racking up championships in both college hockey and major junior, including two championships with the Moncton Wildcats who have a heated rivalry with the Sea Dogs.

“We certainly wish Danny all the best in Saint John, it's probably quite exciting for him,” says Moncton Wildcats business operations director Ryan Jenner.

Flynn's contract with the Sea Dogs is for three years.

With files from CTV Atlantic's Jonathan MacInnis