Julien's head high

Claude Julien met with the Montreal media for the first time since his firing this afternoon and had nothing but good things to say about the organization for which he has always cheered for, and from which he got his first NHL coaching job. Julien said he has watched both Canadiens games since his firing from start to finish, and says he was rooting for the Habs 100%. During his tenure as coach, Julien always handled himself with class, and certainly went out with class today.

Julien said he has received many calls from around the league from colleagues expressing their thoughts and wishes to him, and said he was encouraged by all those who wished him luck in getting back in the league again. Julien harboured no hard feelings for his boss, Bob Gainey, for whatever disagreements they may have had, nor for the way in which he was let go - a most unpleasant 7:15 AM wake-up call. Most of all, though, Julien reserved his biggest thanks for the fans of the Canadiens, whom he called the best in the league:

"Mais surtout, je tiens à remercier les partisans du Canadien. On dit souvent qu'ils sont les meilleurs de la LNH. C'est vrai, ils sont les meilleurs. Même quand l'équipe traverse des moments difficiles, ils se rangent toujours derrière l'équipe. C'est ce qui rend Montréal aussi unique" (From RDS).

I've always thought Julien was an exceptional coach, although he could have been a little more strict with his players at times. That being said, Julien will be remembered for his dedication to the team, and for the kind parting words that he left for all Habs fans and team personnel. Good luck, Claude. We all hope to see you back in the NHL very soon.