He Was a Champion, Now He’s a Coach: The Mudbugs’ Secret Weapon

With the Shreveport Mudbugs' 2025-2026 season officially underway, fans have more than just a new slate of games to look forward to. The team's biggest addition this year isn't a high-scoring skater, well, he was years ago, either way, there's a new but familiar face behind the bench. Brett Smith, a beloved Mudbugs icon who hoisted many championships above his head with his team, has returned to George's Pond as an assistant coach. His unique experience as both a leader on the ice and a mentor off it could be the secret weapon that guides the team to another Robertson Cup in 2026.

The Legacy of a Mudbugs Legend

Back in the day, when they were known as the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs, Smith was at the center of the franchise, a gritty competitor known for being one of the highest scoring players in the team's history. In his 6 years on the team, Brett's competitive streak helped take the team to become 4-time division champs, 2-time Governor's Cup champs, 1-time Central Hockey League Northern Conference Champion, and 1-time Ray Miron President's Cup.

Having one of the most decorated careers with the Mudbugs' original incarnation, Brett Smith has a solid foundation to lead the new team in his assistant coaching role.

Why The Mudbugs Coaching Line-Up Is Stronger than Ever

Now, that same flame inside is being channeled in a new way. As a coach, Smith brings a perspective few others can offer, especially for a league unlike any other with players of a younger age and higher skill level. He knows the pressure and the grind it takes to win in this league. Smith's presence on the bench, with fellow coach and former teammate Jason "Soupy" Campbell, provides a direct link to the franchise's golden era of success, giving the modern roster invaluable insight and the kind of mental edge that can make all the difference on the ice.

It's a sentimental homecoming for Shreveport's dedicated Mudbugs fans who've stood by the team through the years, but it's also a secret weapon the team has under its sleeve. The Mudbugs are banking on Smith's winning mindset and deep-rooted connection to the team to be another push towards molding a new generation of champions.