Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Fakler named assistant at Western Michigan

Marc Fakler has been named an assistant coach at Western Michigan University and will work with Bronco defensemen in addition to assisting with recruiting, scouting, practices and game preparations.

In addition, assistant coach Chris Brooks has been elevated to associate head coach. Brooks is entering his eighth season as an original member of head coach Jim Culhane's staff.

Fakler, 26, previously served two seasons (2004-06) as assistant coach at Robert Morris University and replaces Brendan Kenny, who left to pursue a career in the private sector.

"Marc is a solid recruiter and communicator and someone we're pleased to have on board," said Culhane.

"Chris has established himself as one of the most respected coaches in the CCHA," added Culhane. "His technical knowledge of the game and passion for recruiting make him one of the bright young coaches in our profession."

Fakler helped guide the Colonials through their first two varsity seasons, working under former Bronco Derek Schooley. At RMU, Fakler instructed forwards and defensemen, coordinated recruiting visits and assisted with video scouting.

Fakler also served two seasons (2002-04) as a volunteer assistant coach at Wayne State University. While there, the Warriors captured the College Hockey America tournament championship and advanced to the 2003 NCAA Tournament. Fakler assisted coach Bill Wilkinson with game strategy and practice sessions.

Other coaching stops for Fakler include two seasons as assistant general manager/assistant coach for the Junior A Compuware Ambassadors of the North American Hockey League and assistant coach for the Junior B Grand Rapids Owls of the Central States Hockey League. He has also coached at USA Hockey Select 16-17 Festivals.

A native of Ann Arbor, Fakler received a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Eastern Michigan University in 2002 and added a master's degree in sports administration from Wayne State in 2005.

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