Spartans hire new assistant

Michigan State has hired Keith McKittrick as the new assistant to head coach Rick Comley.

McKittrick comes to East Lansing by way of the NHL's Minnesota Wild. As the Assistant to Video and Scouting Coach with the Wild, McKittrick was responsible for creating video scouting reports, breaking down game film and assisting with U.S. and European-born player research.

"We are very excited about the hiring of Keith," said Comley. "He brings a lot of energy and experience to the position and is a welcome addition to our staff."

Prior to joining the Wild, McKittrick was the head coach of the club hockey program at the University of Minnesota. While at Minnesota, he was solely responsible for scouting his team's opponents and preparing practice and game plans. McKittrick developed team- and player-specific mission statements, objectives and seasonal goals, analyzing and evaluating progress throughout each season.

McKittrick has also been an instructor at the Northern Edge Hockey School since 2003. As the head on-ice instructor, he is responsible for the design of on-ice curriculum. McKittrick also handles new business development throughout the Midwest and assists with elite U.S. and international hockey schools.

McKittrick was a four-year member of the Golden Gophers club hockey program as both a player and coach. He was appointed to the University's Dean's List in 2001 and received a general college scholarship in 2002. McKittrick is currently a member of USA Hockey.

"It's exciting to be here," McKittrick said. "There is a great family atmosphere here at Michigan State. It's nice to be back in an academic setting and I have really enjoyed everything about East Lansing."

McKittrick's hiring is effective immediately. He will be responsible for the coordination of the program's video efforts and other duties as assigned.