ISSY, France – The French Ice Hockey Federation re-signed with the coaching staff of the men’s national team, head coach Dave Henderson and assistant coach Pierre Pousse, for four years.
 
The duo took over the team in 2005 and brought it back to the top division where the team has maintained in the last two years. In 2008, France defeated Italy in the relegation series while in 2009, Les Bleus reached the qualification round of the best 12 teams.
 
To ensure continuity, the contract with both coaches was prolonged until 2014 and the coaches were given the task to maintain in the top division and to qualify for the 2014 Olympic Winter Games. The French haven’t played in the Olympics since Salt Lake City 2002.