Pearson named MTU's head coach

Mel Pearson has been named the head coach at Michigan Tech University.

Pearson leaves the University of Michigan after serving as an assistant coach for the past 23 years. In those years, Pearson helped U of M to 11 Frozen Four appearances and two national championships.

MTU will have a press conference on May 10 to formally introduce Pearson.

Click HERE to view the MTU press release.

Burlon to leave Michigan for New Jersey

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

According to a report in The Wolverine, Michigan defenseman Brandon Burlon will sign with the New Jersey Devils and not return to Ann Arbor for his senior season this fall.

"It's just been something that has been brewing in my head for awhile - it's time for a change," Burlon said. "Michigan has given me a great opportunity for three years, academically and athletically, and the best way I can explain it is I just feel I'm ready for a change."

Burlon was drafted by the Devils in the second round of the 2008 NHL draft.

Photo (2008 GLI) by Matt Mackinder/MiCHO

Pletsch named CCHA commissioner

CCHA Press Release

Fred Pletsch, a member of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association staff since 2001, has been named commissioner of the CCHA following league meetings in Naples, Fla.

Pletsch had been serving as interim commissioner since March 23, when former commissioner Tom Anastos resigned to become head coach at Michigan State.

“Fred steps into the commissioner’s role at an important time for the CCHA,” said Greg Christopher, chair of the CCHA council and director of intercollegiate athletics at Bowling Green State University. “He has been integrally involved in the direction of the conference for nearly a decade, and understands the details of the position along with the broader vision necessary to lead the CCHA. All 11 institutions have confidence in Fred and believe that he is the right person to help us navigate the future.”

Previously, Pletsch served as the CCHA’s associate commissioner (2008-11) and director of communications (2001-2008).

“I would like to thank the CCHA membership for providing me this opportunity to continue to serve a league with such great tradition and history,” Pletsch said. “The CCHA staff is committed to maintaining the high standards of service and professionalism that have become synonymous with the conference. Together, we look forward to meeting the challenges and exploring the opportunities presented by college hockey’s changing landscape.”

Prior to joining the CCHA, the Canton resident served as commissioner of the North American Hockey League for three years. During that time, NAHL teams graduated over 150 players to the NCAA Division I ranks.