HAMILTON — John Gruden was named head coach of the Ontario Hockey League's Hamilton Bulldogs on Friday.

The former U.S. national team development program assistant coach spent part of last season as head coach of the OHL's Flint Firebirds. Gruden takes over a team that finished last in the East Division standings with 58 points.

"After an extensive search, I am pleased to announce John Gruden as the Hamilton Bulldogs' new head coach," general manager Steve Staios said in a release. "It was clear to me that John's values and goals best aligned with what our organization holds in high regard.

"His background, competitiveness and character are a tremendous asset for our team."

George Burnett guided the Bulldogs to a 25-35-8-0 record last season. The team announced in April that he would not return.

Gruden was fired twice during a tumultuous season with the Firebirds.

He was let go in November after an ongoing dispute with team owner Rolf Nilsen. The coach was reinstated the next day after the players responded in a unified protest.

Gruden was fired again in February and OHL commissioner David Branch responded by suspending Nilsen and putting the team under the league's direction.

Gruden, who had a 16-31-6 record in 53 games with Flint, played 92 NHL games over his 10-year pro career. The former defenceman played for the Boston Bruins, Ottawa Senators and Washington Capitals.

"I want to thank Steve Staios and (team owner) Michael Andlauer for providing me with the opportunity to join an organization as respected as the Hamilton Bulldogs and continue my head coaching career in the OHL," Gruden said. "I am really looking forward to getting started and working with the excellent group of young players we have to achieve success both on and off the ice."