JETS’ COACHING STAFF SPLIT: Winnipeg Head Coach Scott Arniel Files for Divorce from Wife Lia Arniel After 30 Years of Marriage _ explains his….

In a surprising turn of events off the ice, Winnipeg Jets head coach Scott Arniel has filed for divorce from his wife, Lia Arniel, ending a marriage that has lasted more than three decades. The couple, long known in the hockey community for their stability and commitment, reportedly decided to part ways amicably after what Arniel described as “a long period of reflection and mutual understanding.”

Arniel, who took over as the Jets’ head coach earlier this year, opened up briefly about the personal matter during a press availability earlier this week. “This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” he said. “Lia and I have shared a lifetime of memories — raising our family, supporting each other through my playing and coaching career, and building a life together. But sometimes people grow in different directions. We’re committed to maintaining respect and privacy as we move forward.”

The couple met in the late 1980s when Arniel was still playing professionally. Over the years, Lia was often seen supporting her husband during his playing days and subsequent coaching stints across the NHL and AHL. Together, they have two children, both of whom are now adults.

Sources close to the family say the decision was not sudden but rather the culmination of years of balancing a demanding professional schedule with personal challenges. Arniel’s career — marked by frequent relocations and long seasons away from home — has often been cited as a test of endurance for coaches’ families.

Despite the personal upheaval, Arniel has remained focused on his role behind the Jets’ bench. He emphasized that his personal life will not interfere with his responsibilities to the team. “My focus remains on our players, our staff, and helping this team succeed,” he said. “I’m fortunate to have the support of my family, friends, and everyone in the Jets organization.”

The Jets organization issued a brief statement acknowledging Arniel’s request for privacy during this time, noting, “Coach Arniel has our full support. We respect his wish to handle this personal matter privately.”

While details of the divorce proceedings have not been made public, insiders suggest that the split is amicable, with both parties prioritizing family and mutual respect.

For fans and those close to the franchise, the news is a reminder that even those in the spotlight face deeply personal challenges away from their professional achievements.

As Arniel continues to guide the Jets through a promising season, he does so while navigating one of life’s most difficult transitions — proving that resilience isn’t just a trait for the rink, but for every aspect of life.