Rapid City Rush Coach Scott Burt Takes Medical Leave to Focus on Health
Rapid City, SD – The Rapid City Rush announced Friday that Head Coach and General Manager Scott Burt will be stepping away from the team to address a potential health issue.
A Beacon of Determination Takes a Step Back
“Over the past couple of months, I have been experiencing headaches and migraines,” Burt said. “With guidance from our medical staff and my wife, Audrey, I decided to get checked out. After undergoing testing on Monday and consulting with medical professionals, I have decided to temporarily step back and focus on my health.
“I would like to thank Jeff Dickerson, T.J. Puchyr, Ian Gentile, Todd Mackin, and everyone at Spire Hockey for having my back, as well as Jared Reid and the entire Rush staff for their unwavering support. While this is a new challenge for me and my family, I have been a fighter my whole career, and I am preparing for what could be the fight of my life.”
Leading with Heart: A Legacy on and off the Ice
Burt, a native of British Columbia, is in his fourth season with the Rush. The team brought him on board on July 7, 2021, as their fourth Head Coach. On June 21, 2022, Burt’s dedication and leadership were recognized with the added title of General Manager, a role he has held ever since.
This current chapter follows a remarkable journey for Burt, who boasts 12 years of coaching experience across both professional and major junior levels. Before stepping behind the bench, Burt had an impressive 13-year career as a professional hockey player, during which he earned the coveted Kelly Cup title three times.
Team and Ownership Rally Behind Burt
“Our prayers are with Coach Burt, his wife Audrey and daughter Sophie as they navigate the challenges ahead,” said Spire Hockey co-owner Jeff Dickerson. “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 offer every resource at our disposal to help him get the absolute best health care available. We ask for respect and privacy for Burtie and his family at this difficult time.”
Smooth Transition: Leadership Remains Steady
With Burt’s temporary absence, Assistant Coach Peter Drikos, now in his second season with the Rush will take over as Acting Head Coach. Drikos will lead the team starting with Friday’s game against the South Carolina Stingrays in North Charleston, South Carolina . Burt did not travel with the team for this road trip.
“Over the last 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 closest friends. The entire Rush family completely supports Burtie’s decision and knows the team is in great hands while he is away. Everyone who knows Burtie knows how much hockey has meant to him, and we are all looking forward to his return to the bench.”
Community Supports Burt and Family
The Rush organization asks for prayers of strength and respect for the Burt family’s privacy at this time.
* What strategies might the Rapid City Rush employ to navigates this unexpected coaching change mid-season? [[1](https://www.newscenter1.tv/news/rapid-city-rush-names-scott-burt-as-new-head-coach/article_71d3a912-04cc-5ca0-b073-a57f2e5ac060.html)]
## Interview: Rapid City Rush Coach Scott Burt Takes Medical Leave
**Intro**
Today, we’re joined by Alex Reed, [Alex Reed Credentials and affiliation] to discuss the recent announcement that Rapid City Rush Head Coach and General Manager Scott Burt will be taking a leave of absence to focus on his health.
**Questions**
* **(Alex Reed Name), this news came as a surprise to many. Can you tell us about the situation and what we know so far?**
* **The statement mentions headaches and migraines as the reason behind Burt’s decision. How concerned should fans be about his health?**
* **Burt has been a powerful force for the Rush since joining in 2021. How will his absence impact the team moving forward?**
* **The Rush organization has expressed their full support for Burt during this difficult time. What kind of support will be provided to him and his family?**
* **What message do you think Burt would like to send to his players, the fans, and the entire Rapid City community?**
* **is there anything fans can do to show their support for Coach Burt during his recovery?**
**Closing**
We thank Alex Reed for their insights on this developing story. We here at [Outlet Name] wish Coach Burt a full and speedy recovery and look forward to his return to the Rush bench.
**(Note: This is a sample interview framework. Specific questions should be tailored to the guest’s expertise and the desired focus of the interview.)**
