Jim Montgomery, the head coach of the St. Louis Blues, has made the shocking announcement that he has formally filed for divorce from his wife, Emily Montgomery, after more than 15 years of marriage. The announcement was made public by the team in a formal statement on Saturday morning, and it has caused waves of astonishment and support throughout the NHL.
The 54-year-old coach, who has guided the Blues through a challenging season filled with rebuilding and strategic change, said that splitting with Emily was “one of the most difficult” decisions he has ever made but “necessary for the well-being and growth of the team.”
After more than 15 years of marriage, St. Louis Blues head coach Jim Montgomery has made the shocking announcement that he has formally filed for divorce from his wife, Emily Montgomery. The NHL has been rocked by the news, which was announced in an official club statement on Saturday morning. The league has been shocked and supportive.
After guiding the Blues through a season filled with reconstruction and strategic change, the 54-year-old coach said that splitting with Emily was “one of the most difficult” decisions he has ever made, but it was “necessary for the well-being and growth of the team.”
Boston Bruins’ bench.
Despite their best efforts, Montgomery said, the evolving demands of professional coaching, personal growth, and the rigors of high-profile life led them to reassess their future together.
“Emily has been a rock in my life for many years,” Montgomery said. “She’s been my supporter through all of it—from coaching in the NCAA to dealing with my own personal challenges in recovery, to returning to the NHL. But as we each grow individually, sometimes the relationship no longer grows with us. That’s what happened here.”
Past Challenges Resurface in the Conversation
Montgomery’s journey back to NHL coaching has not been without obstacles. In 2019, he was dismissed from the Dallas Stars due to what was later revealed as struggles with alcohol addiction. He entered a recovery program and has since spoken openly—and courageously—about his path to sobriety, earning the admiration of many across the league.
His return to coaching with Boston and then St. Louis marked a triumphant comeback, but also introduced new pressures. Multiple insiders have acknowledged that while Montgomery remained focused and composed in his professional role, the intense balance of personal recovery, family life, and the stress of high-performance sports may have taken its toll.
“Jim has carried himself with remarkable dignity through everything,” said an anonymous front office source familiar with both the Boston and St. Louis organizations. “But even the strongest people need space to heal and grow, and sometimes that means difficult changes in their personal life.”
Reactions Across the NHL: Support, Empathy, and Privacy
Following the news, the NHL community quickly rallied in support of Montgomery. Former colleagues, players, and fans took to social media and public platforms to express empathy and encouragement.
“He’s one of the most resilient, honest men I’ve ever worked with,” tweeted former Bruins player Patrice Bergeron. “Jim has faced his demons head-on and come out stronger. Sending love to him and his family right now.”
St. Louis Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong offered a short statement to reinforce the organization’s support for their head coach:
The NHL Coaches’ Association also released a brief note of support, emphasizing the importance of mental wellness and family balance in the lives of those in high-pressure roles.
Impact on Coaching Role: Montgomery Stays Focused
Despite the personal developments, Montgomery has made it clear that his commitment to the Blues remains unchanged. According to team sources, he addressed the locker room directly on Friday evening, briefly acknowledging the situation and assuring players of his ongoing focus.
“He just told us straight up, like he always does,” said one veteran Blues player who preferred not to be named. “Told us he was going through something tough personally but that it wouldn’t affect his role. He asked us to keep pushing forward and to respect his family’s space. That’s the kind of leader he is.”
Indeed, many within the organization noted that Montgomery’s openness and authenticity may only strengthen his bond with players.
“He’s not a robot—he’s a real person, and that’s why we play for him,” said another player. “He brings honesty to the room, and we respect him even more for it.”
Emily Montgomery Maintains Silence, Focused on Family
As of this writing, Emily Montgomery has not released a personal statement regarding the divorce. Sources close to her say she is focused on maintaining stability for their two children and has asked for privacy during the transition.
Friends of the couple emphasize that the separation was not fueled by conflict, but by an honest reassessment of life’s priorities. One source close to Emily noted, “There’s still mutual respect and care—this is just about finding peace and happiness in separate chapters.”
A Final Message: Respect, Privacy, and Grace
Montgomery ended his public statement with a call for empathy and privacy.
“There is no playbook for this,” he said. “Emily and I are doing what we believe is right, with love and care for our children at the center. We ask the media and fans to please respect our privacy. This is not a hockey story—this is a family story.”
As the St. Louis Blues continue their push forward, their head coach now steps into a season of personal transformation—off the ice. Jim Montgomery has faced adversity before and emerged stronger. This time, the challenge is quieter but no less significant.
For a man who’s made a career out of teaching resilience, this moment may define his own more than any championship ever could.
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