Hamilton Bulldogs fire coach, GM George Burnett

Long-time coach and General Manager George Burnett was fired Monday by the Hamilton Bulldogs. 

Burnett had been coaching for 26 years and became the first head coach and general manager of the Ontario Hockey League's Bulldogs in 2015 after their move from Belleville. 

Hamilton Bulldog's owner Michael Andlauer also made the decision to separate the two job duties. Team president Steve Staios will take over as General Manager. 

Andlauer thanked Burnett for his contribution. He said, "I want to thank George for the year we spent together as he was most instrumental in creating a successful and seamless transition from Belleville to Hamilton for our players, our League and for our fans." 

Staios said "George is a man of integrity and class, and we wish him well in his future."

The Bulldogs coach position will be vacant in the meantime. 

Under Burnett the team missed the Ontario Hockey League playoffs, finishing last in the East Division.