AHL alum Snow named Islanders GM

Former AHL goaltender Garth Snow has retired as a player to become the new general manager of the New York Islanders.

"I spoke with Garth at length throughout the spring about the general manager’s position and he really impressed me with his passion and his knowledge," said Islanders owner Charles Wang. "When the job opened up, the choice was an easy one. Garth knows the league as well as anyone, has an eye for talent and understands how our staff works as a team. Most importantly, Garth is a man of integrity, someone I trust will work hard, be creative and represent the Islanders with dignity."

Snow, 36, played 82 games in the American Hockey League during his 13-year pro career, including one contest on a conditioning assignment with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers in 2005-06. Snow led the AHL with 32 victories playing for the Cornwall Aces in 1994-95, and also had a stint with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in 2000-01.

Snow replaces Neil Smith, who was relieved of his duties.

As Islanders GM, Snow will be the point person for trades and oversee the pro scouting department. Snow becomes part of a hockey operations staff that also includes head coach Ted Nolan, senior advisor Pat LaFontaine, player development director Bryan Trottier, chief amateur scout Tony Feltrin and pro scouting director Ken Morrow.

"This is a proud moment for me, a dream come true," said Snow, who will be 37 on July 28. "It’s an opportunity I wanted more than anything. I look forward to working with Ted, Pat, Bryan and the scouts. Islander fans can be assured that this franchise is going to do everything in its power to bring another Stanley Cup to Long Island."