Shyiak named associate coach at WMU

Former Alaska-Anchorage head coach and Northern Michigan assistant coach Dave Shyiak has been tabbed the new associate head coach at Western Michigan. (Photo/WMU)

New coach knows Lakers tradition

Over 20 years ago, Damon Whitten sat in Lake Superior State’s Taffy Abel Arena awaiting an offer from then-head coach Jeff Jackson to play for the Lakers.

Berenson to stay at Michigan through 2015-16 season

Michigan Press Release 

The University of Michigan and head coach Red Berenson have agreed to a three-year contract extension that will keep him at Michigan through the 2015-16 campaign.

"I'm pleased that the administration and the program are looking ahead," said Berenson. "I'm excited about the opportunity to remain at Michigan, especially with the current Yost renovations, the move to the Big Ten and for our incoming recruits. We have a great staff here and I'm looking forward to the next few years at Michigan."

Berenson has led the Michigan ice hockey program since 1984, winning two national titles (1996, 1998) along the way. He has guided the Wolverines to a record 22 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and has reached the Frozen Four on 11 occasions. Berenson is a two-time CCHA coach of the year (1994, 2008) and earned national coach of the year honors in 2008.

“Red is an icon in the sport and the one of the most recognizable names in college hockey,” said Michigan AD Dave Brandon. “We are glad that he agreed to continue leading our hockey program for the foreseeable future. Red’s dedication to Michigan and our program is a major reason for our success. I’m excited that he will continue molding the lives of the young men who skate for Michigan.”

Berenson has earned a 752-352-77 record in 28 years at the helm, along with 11 CCHA regular-season titles and nine CCHA tournament crowns. He currently ranks fifth on the NCAA hockey all-time wins list and collected his 750th victory with a 3-1 victory over Notre Dame in the CCHA quarterfinals on March 10, 2012.

Berenson played three seasons at Michigan from 1959-1962, where he was a two-time All-American (1961, 1962) and served one year as team captain (1962). He holds a bachelor's degree (1962) and a master's degree in business administration (1966) from U-M.

Following his collegiate career, Berenson played 17 seasons in the National Hockey League from 1962-1978, appearing in 987 games with the Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues and Detroit Red Wings. He retired in 1978 and served in various NHL coaching capacities before winning the Jack Adams Award (NHL Coach of the Year) with St. Louis in 1981.

Photo by Matt Mackinder/MiCHO

MTU's Pearson tabbed WCHA Coach of the Year

Michigan Tech Press Release

Michigan Tech head coach Mel Pearson was named WCHA Coach of the Year, as announced today by the league office.

Pearson, in his first season in Houghton, has led his squad to a major turnaround in 2011-12. Heading into the postseason, the Huskies are 14-18-4 overall and 11-13-4 in conference games.

“I’m extremely proud of Mel and what he’s been able to accomplish in such a short time,” said Tech athletic director Suzanne Sanregret. “He and his coaching staff have found a way to motivate and inspire the team and it has made for a positive experience for our student-athletes. This has been an exciting year for Michigan Tech athletics and the entire community and we look forward to the future.”

Pearson helped Michigan Tech more than triple its win total from a year ago (four). The Huskies were picked to finish last in the 12-team WCHA according to the preseason poll, but settled in eighth after having a chance to finish as high as fifth in the final weekend of the regular season. Michigan Tech won 11 WCHA games (after winning just eight the previous three years combined) and posted marquee wins over then-No. 3 Denver (Oct. 28), No. 2 Minnesota (Dec. 9) and No. 1 Minnesota Duluth (Jan. 28) during the year.

Michigan Tech’s offense surged in 2011-12 to 2.83 goals per game from 1.97 in 2010-11. The Huskies also allowed 1.5 fewer goals per game than the previous season.

Eight different players on this year’s squad have eight goals or more after just two scored more than seven a year ago.

“I’d like to thank Suzanne, (Michigan Tech president) Glenn Mroz and (Michigan Tech vice president for student affairs) Les Cook for giving me the opportunity to return to Michigan Tech,” said Pearson. “I’d like to thank my assistant coaches and staff who are very deserving in sharing this award. Mostly, I want to thank the players who went out on a nightly basis and got the job done. They’re really the reason I’m receiving this honor.

“The WCHA is a great league with so many great coaches. I feel fortunate and privileged to win this award, especially this year when there are so many who are worthy.”

Pearson is the fourth MTU coach to be selected WCHA Coach of the Year. Jamie Russell, who earned the honor in 2006-07, was the most recent. Herb Boxer gained the award in the 1987-88 season, while the legendary John MacInnes won the award six times (1960, 1962, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981).

Photo (GLI 2011) by Matt Mackinder/MiCHO

Laprade named new assistant at LSSU

LSSU Press Release

Former Lake Superior State forward and volunteer coach Doug Laprade is no stranger to Laker hockey and returns to the program in 2011-12 as an assistant coach.

Laprade played for the Lakers from 1987-91 and was a right wing for the 1988 national championship team. Head coach Jim Roque and Laprade were assistant coaches together at LSSU under Jeff Jackson. Laprade was a volunteer assistant at LSSU in 1991-92 and 1992-93.

“I’m thrilled to be back and coach the team I played on,” Laprade said. “I’ve always had a lot of respect for Jim and Tim (Christian).”

“He’ll travel with us, recruit and be involved in all aspects of the job,” Roque said. “He’s been in sales most of his life. He’s polished when it comes to dealing with players, parents, recruiting. He has a lot of coaching experience and experience dealing with young athletes. He’s been coming to a lot of our practices over the years, picking up drills. It will be an easy transition for him.”

Laprade spent the past seven seasons with the Sault Area High School hockey program, including four years as head coach. The Blue Devils won 70 games and three regional titles during that tenure. They made one MHSAA state semifinal appearance.

“For me, coaching at Sault High was a great experience,” Laprade said. “I tried to coach the kids at a high level. I tried to teach them to not only be better players, but to help them graduate and become young men. We had some success, but that process was the best part – getting to know the kids and seeing them grow. I’d also like to say we have great community support at Sault High and Lake State. I appreciate the community support for both programs.”

After spending most of his professional career in radio advertising sales in Sault Ste. Marie, Laprade recently became agent-owner of the Sutter-Laprade Insurance Agency.

“We’re excited to have an alum in the program,” Roque added. “He won a national championship as a player and a volunteer coach…He’s been helping keep alumni in the loop. We want to have a 20-year reunion with the ’92 team next summer. He’ll be able to help with that a lot.”

Laprade was a 1988 11th round draft pick of the Los Angeles Kings. The Thunder Bay, Ont., native totaled 17 goals and 16 assists during four seasons with the Lakers.

Laprade replaces Rich Metro, who was recently named head coach and general manager of Villard de Lans of League Magnus in France.

Photos courtesy Lake Superior State Athletics

Murray officially named to WMU post

WMU Press Release

Western Michigan has announced the hiring of NHL coaching veteran Andy Murray as the new men’s head coach.

Murray becomes the sixth head coach in the program’s 38-year history, signing him to a five-year contract.

“We are extremely excited and have a great deal of Bronco pride in announcing Andy Murray as our head coach of our terrific Bronco hockey team,” said director of athletics Kathy Beauregard. “Coach Murray becomes a Bronco after assembling a very extensive and successful body of work as an NHL and International head coach. Consistent with our stated goals of competing at the highest levels of Division I Ice Hockey and of winning a hockey national championship this decade, Andy’s hiring is another clear signal our university is seriously engaged in achieving this coveted pinnacle.”

Murray comes to WMU with an extensive resume earned at the highest level of professional hockey. He is one of only 39 coaches in NHL history to reach 300 wins with a career record of 333-278-58-71. Murray has 10 years of NHL head coaching experience, spending six seasons at the helm of the Los Angeles Kings and four with the St. Louis Blues. Murray is the Kings’ all-time franchise leader in wins with 215 and led Los Angeles to three 90-point seasons in his tenure. During the 2008-09 season with St. Louis he was a finalist for the Jack Adams Coach of the Year Award after guiding the Blues to a third place finish in the Central Division.

Murray has spent a total of 20 years as either a head or assistant coach in the NHL. He held assistant coaching positions with the Winnipeg Jets, Minnesota North Stars and Philadelphia Flyers. While he has not coached in college hockey in the United States he did coach at Brandon University, a Canadian college, for three seasons. In his short time, he was able to turn Brandon into the top-ranked program in all of Canadian college hockey.

“I’ve always had a high level of respect for coaches in the college game and what they do on a daily basis,” said Murray. “I look forward to the challenge of coaching some outstanding people. The college game is a great place to be and I have told coaches that for years. I don’t know if it gets better at any level. I have had a lot of great opportunities in my coaching career and I am really excited for this one.”

To go with his extensive professional coaching background, Murray also brings international experience. He coached Team Canada to gold medals at the 2007, 2003 and 1997 World Hockey Championships. He is the only Canadian coach in history to win three World Championships and he also held the highest winning percentage as a coach (64-percent) in the history of the Canadian Men’s National Team. He also holds six Spengler Cup Titles (an annual tournament in Switzerland) for Team Canada, a record for the country. Murray was also a head coach in Europe, coaching three Swiss professional teams (EV Zug, Zurcher Schlittschuh and EHC Kloten) and a German team, EHC Berlin, in the early 80’s and early 90’s.

“I think he is going to be a great fit,” said former Bronco great Jamal Mayers, who played for Murray during his time with the St. Louis Blues. “He is a player’s coach who is going to be demanding and is very detail oriented. There won’t be a single night the team won’t be prepared. Coach Murray is going to give guys an opportunity to prove themselves and, as a player, you can’t ask for anything more. I’m very excited for the program and I’m glad to see him take the job. I think it is a great day for Bronco hockey.“

Both assistant coaches Pat Ferschweiler and Rob Facca will be retained by coach Murray.

A native of Souris, Manitoba, Murray and his wife have three children, all of which play professional hockey in Switzerland. His youngest son, Jordy, played for the University of Wisconsin and his oldest son, Brady, played for North Dakota. His daughter, Sarah, played Division I college hockey at Minnesota-Duluth, where she was a part of two national championship teams.

The Murray File
• Head coach of the St. Louis Blues 2006-10
• Head coach of the Los Angeles Kings 1999-2006
• Associate coach of the Winnipeg Jets 1993-95
• Assistant coach of the Minnesota North Stars 1990-92
• Head coach EHC Berlin (Germany) 1993
• Head coach EV Zug (Swiss A Division) 1986-88
• Head coach Zurcher Schlittschuh (Swiss A Division) 1984-86
• Head coach EHC Kloten (Swiss A Division) 1981-84
• Over three decades of professional and international coaching experience.
• 10 seasons and 333 wins as a head coach in the NHL.
• One of 39 coaches in NHL history to reach 300 wins.
• 2009 NHL Coach of the Year Finalist.
• Los Angeles Kings All-Time franchise leader in career wins with 215.
• Only Canadian coach to ever win three IIHF World Championships with Team Canada (2007, 2003, 1997).
• Stanley Cup Finals appearance as an assistant coach with the Minnesota North Stars (1991).
• Coached Canadian school Brandon College to a No. 1 ranking in just three seasons at the helm.
• Won a record six Spengler Cups with Team Canada

Murray to be named new WMU coach

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

The Kalamazoo Gazette is reporting that former NHL coach Andy Murray will be named Western Michigan's new head coach.

WMU has scheduled a press conference for Tuesday at the Seelye Center to announce Murray's hiring.

It's expected that current assistant coaches Pat Ferschweiler and Rob Facca will remain under Murray.

The 60-year-old Murray, who reportedly turned down the head coaching job at Rensselaer in 2006, has 10 seasons of head coaching experience in the NHL with Los Angeles and St. Louis Blues and has also been an assistant in Philadelphia, Minnesota and Winnipeg.

Murray's only collegiate coaching experience came at Brandon University in Canada back in 1979.

The Gazette also reports Murray will receive a similar contract to the $275,000-per-year deal former head coach Jeff Blashill received in April.

Ex-OU, WMU coach Hogan off to desert

Arizona Press Release

The Arizona Wildcats hockey team has officially hired Sean Hogan as head coach moving into the 2011-2012 season.

Hogan comes directly from Western Michigan University, where he served as the director of video operations. He also brings an extensive background as a head coach and experience with the American Collegiate Hockey Association.

“I am very excited about being named head coach at the University of Arizona," said Hogan. "I feel I am the coach that can best move UA hockey to the next level and am certain that we can compete year in and year out for the Murdoch Cup."

Hogan is looking to re-create the winning ways he enjoyed at all his previous coaching stops.

"Having previously won two ACHA national championships as a head coach, I know what is necessary to compete nationally at this level," Hogan said. "We will have a team that is very hard to play against and play an exciting brand of hockey that Arizona hockey fans can be proud of."

Prior to his time at WMU, Hogan was the head coach of the Yellowstone Quake Junior A team in the Northern Pacific Hockey League where coached the Quake to a final regular season record of 34-14-0.

Most of Hoganʼs experience, however, comes from Oakland University. Hogan was the head coach for four seasons, leading the team to two national championships, ACHA Division II in 2006 and ACHA Division I in 2007. He is currently the all-time wins leader at Oakland with a record of 87-50-7.

One of the top reasons that Hogan was selected is because of his internal drive to win and the impact he is looking to make, not only on-campus and with the players, but also in Tucson.

"My goal is to be here long term, to develop a winning University of Arizona hockey program as part of the Tucson community," said Hogan. "Our players will be expected to be involved in community projects. It is our responsibility as a hockey program to develop community ties and give Arizona hockey fans a reason to support this program. I would like to be involved in starting, organizing and developing a youth hockey program here in Tucson.”

Hogan also brings the Wildcats experience in recruiting and rink management. He has advanced many of his players to the ranks of the NCAA, WHL, USHL and NAHL and is currently in contact with players from last year and has begun recruiting for this upcoming season.

Blashill leaving WMU for Red Wings?

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

According to an article in the Kalamazoo Gazette, Western Michigan head coach Jeff Blashill may be one and done with the Broncos.

Blashill, who led the Broncos this past year to their first NCAA tournament in 15 seasons and the CCHA tournament championship game for the first time in a quarter-century, confirmed Wednesday that he's interviewed for one of the Detroit Red Wings' vacant assistant coaching positions after just one year in Kalamazoo.

"I am interviewing, but they have not made a decision and I have not made a decision yet," Blashill told the Gazette. "I do expect to know at some point by the end of the week. ... I think they are narrowing in to make a decision. And, at that point, I will make a decision."

WMU's Jeff Blashill a finalist for Detroit Red Wings' assistant coaching vacancy

LSSU assistant Metro leaves for France

LSSU Press Release

After four seasons as an assistant coach at Lake Superior State University, Rich Metro is returning to professional hockey and the team that won two French elite league titles during his six seasons of playing overseas.

Metro, a Sault Ste. Marie native who played college hockey at Northern Michigan University, has been named head coach and general manager of Villard de Lans of League Magnus. Metro totaled 59 goals and 90 points in France. He has nine years experience as a professional player.

“I’m honored that they thought that highly of me to give me an opportunity as a head coach,” Metro said. “The easy part is that I know exactly what I’m getting into. The down side is that I love working here (at LSSU) and the people who go along with it. I’ve had a very enjoyable four years.”

Metro noted that head coaching opportunities don’t come along often, and he couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

“I owe everything to Coach Roque,” Metro said. “For him to hire me right out of playing was obviously a bonus for my family and me. “He helped me learn the whole process – coaching, recruiting, travel, everything. We have three people here, and most teams have up to 10. One thing that’s nice is that here you learn how to do everything – travel, video, meals – we do it all. I don’t think a lot of (assistants) get to do that.”

“We will miss his energy and passion for hockey,” LSSU coach Jim Roque said. “He is excellent with the players. He has a real good rapport with the guys. He had just finished playing and brought a lot of energy to the lockerroom and office. He learned quickly, and I liked his (recruiting) eye a lot.”

Metro learned there’s more to being a head coach than teaching the game of hockey. At the pro level, Metro will replace grade monitoring and National Letters of Intent with contract negotiations.

“At the college level, coaching is 25 percent of the job, and the other 75 percent is travel, equipment, recruiting, budget and detail work,” Roque said.

Metro will be Villard de Lans’ head coach and oversee a developmental program and its coaching staff. Metro likened the elite league team and its passionate hockey community to LSSU and Sault Ste. Marie. Both go toe-to-toe with powerhouse programs.

“It’s been around for 80 years,” Metro said of Villard de Lans. “The team itself and the town remind you of Lake State. We’re competing against big budget teams and have some of the same problems that Lake State has. Everything is financial anymore. We are a town of 10,000 up against a team from a town of 500,000 that has 5,000 seats sold out. We have a rink like the Pullar. It seats about 2,000, and it’s packed.”

Metro’s roster included three players from the French national team and four North Americans. He is allowed to carry an unlimited number of Europeans.

“They haven’t won a title since I was there,” he said. “It’s a small budget, but they expect a winner. When you walk down the street, you either hear ‘you suck’ or that things are going well. I’d rather have that than have the fans not caring.”

Metro originally left Sault Ste. Marie when he was a teenager playing Junior A hockey for the Waterloo Blackhawks. He met his wife, Elodie, in France.

“When you grow up in the Sault, but move away at a young age, you know people, but you don’t get the feeling that you really belong,” Metro said in reference to when he first accepted the coaching position at LSSU. “When I go to Marquette, people still know me as a player. But after a year, the Laker family overwhelms you and you have a great feeling of being accepted. The inner circle and the BlueLiners were so nice and great to my wife and daughter (Violette)…Elodie will never forget how many nice people she met here.

“My four years working under Coach Roque were really enjoyable. I learned a lot from Coach (Tim) Christian as well. He showed me the recruiting ropes and is a real good guy. I wasn’t looking to leave, but when they come knocking, how many times can you turn down an offer?”

Metro will stay on at LSSU through the summer hockey school sessions. Camp begins at Villard de Lans on Aug. 1.

Huskies hire Muckalt as assistant coach

Michigan Tech Press Release

Michigan Tech announced Thursday the addition of Bill Muckalt to the Huskies staff as an assistant coach.

Muckalt, a former Michigan Wolverine and five-year veteran of the NHL, will begin his duties today.

"I had the opportunity to recruit and coach Bill, and he was an outstanding player," said MTU head coach Mel Pearson. "He has a great work ethic and tremendous passion for the game. His experience gives him a good network for recruiting and a keen eye for talent. Bill will be a great addition to our staff."

Muckalt spent last season as the head coach of the New Mexico Mustangs (pictured above), an expansion franchise in the North American Hockey League. He started the team from scratch, developing all aspects of the operation including coaching, recruiting and scouting. The Mustangs, which were made up of 21 rookies, compiled a 19-35-4 record with 15 wins in their last 27 games.

Prior to his stint in New Mexico, Muckalt served as head coach of the Valencia (Calif.) Flyers of the Western States Hockey League, where his squad went 20-16-3. He also worked as head instructor of Summer Hockey School at Ice Station Valencia.

Muckalt gained coaching experience with Eastern Michigan University's club hockey team as assistant coach in 2006-07 and head coach in 2007-08.

"I am very excited to be a part of a program that has such a rich history," said Muckalt. "The chance to work with Mel, who has had a big influence in my life both in hockey and personally, was a very easy choice. I have seen the commitment that the university administration has made to the hockey program, and I can't wait to get started."

Pearson recruited Muckalt to play at Michigan starting in 1994-95, and the two won 130 games and two national championships over the next four years. The winger posted 105 career goals and 226 total points. He earned All-America First Team honors and was a Hobey Baker Award finalist while leading the Wolverines to the 1998 NCAA title.

Muckalt graduated from Michigan with a degree in sports management and communications, then made the jump straight into the NHL where he played five seasons. His most productive season came as a rookie with the Vancouver Canucks, where he posted 16 goals and 20 assists in 73 games.

Pearson also announced that Damon Whitten will remain on staff as the team's other full-time assistant coach.

Wiseman named new assistant at UM

Michigan Press Release

The University of Michigan announced the hiring of assistant coach Brian Wiseman on Thursday.

A four-year letterwinner (1991-94) and former Hobey Baker Award finalist under Red Berenson, Wiseman was an assistant coach in 2010-11 for the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League.

In his first season with Houston, Wiseman helped the Aeros finish second in the AHL West Division and reach the Calder Cup final. He previously served as an assistant coach at Princeton University during the 2003-04 campaign. Wiseman was a video coach for the Dallas Stars in 2002-03 and served as the Michigan ice hockey team's administrative assistant in 2000-01 and '01-02.

In 166 career games for the Maize and Blue, Wiseman racked up 348 points, which ranks third all-time for the program. His 164 assists are second-best in U-M annals. As a senior captain in 1993-94 he led U-M in scoring (19-50-69), earned All-America first team honors and was voted a Hobey Baker finalist. Wiseman is one of only seven U-M players to notch 50 assists in one season. He led off his career by garnering the CCHA Rookie of the Year award in 1990-91 when he tallied a 25-33-58 line, the second-highest point total by any Wolverine freshman.

Wiseman was a member of U-M's first CCHA regular-season championship team (1991-92) and its first CCHA Tournament winner (1994). He won a second CCHA regular-season crown in 1993-94.

Wiseman's four seasons at Michigan started the school's streak of 21 consecutive NCAA Tournament berths, a national record. His teams reached the Frozen Four in 1992 and '93.

A selection of the New York Rangers in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft (12th round, 257th overall), Wiseman appeared in three NHL games, all with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1996-97. He had six strong seasons between the International Hockey League and the American Hockey League. In 446 career minor league games, he totaled 515 points on 145 goals and 370 assists. In 1998-99 he was the IHL's leading scorer and most valuable player while leading the Aeros to the Turner Cup. He also captained the Aeros in 1999-2000.

Wiseman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education. During a hiatus from hockey from 2005-10, he worked as an account manager for M-I SWACO, a Houston-based oil and gas supplier.

Pearson thankful for MTU opportunity

By Andy Bourdeau/MTU Beat Writer


Mel Pearson was introduced as the 21st coach in Michigan Tech history today at a press conference on MTU's campus. The conference room was filled with media and many with local interests in the hockey program at MTU.

"I would like to thank John MacInnes for giving me the oppurtunity to play here" said Pearson. "I would like to thank Jimmy Nahrgang for seeing something in a 23-year-old. I would like to thank Glenn Mroz and last, but not least, our AD Suzanne Sanagret for giving me this oppurtunity to return to Houghton."

Pearson is happy to return to Houghton and is looking forward to starting his new position. Some of the first items on his list is to get to know the team and develop a culture change in Houghton, one that expects to win every game.

He is a welcome face around town and he got started right away, already recruiting, stating that "While Suzanne was on the golf course this weekend, I was at the ice rink... I love it, I love talking to the players and the families."

Anastos names his MSU coaching staff

Michigan State Press Release

Michigan State coach Tom Anastos has announced that he has added former Spartan players Kelly Miller and Mike Gilmore to the Spartan coaching staff, along with retaining Tom Newton as an assistant coach and Adam Nightingale as the team’s video coordinator.

“I’m excited to have our staff in place so that we can really begin to move forward with all aspects of the program,” Anastos said. “I believe that we have built a coaching staff that will identify and bring to Michigan State quality student-athletes, develop them into NHL-caliber talent, and prepare them for life after hockey. These four coaches have a passion for the game and also a passion for Spartan hockey. I’m looking forward to working with them as we prepare to develop and enhance the existing relationships with our student-athletes, alumni and Michigan State community.”

Miller will serve as a full-time assistant coach along with Newton, who will be entering his 22nd year on the Spartan bench. Miller is one of the program’s all-time greats, who not only is one of the all-time leading scorers in program history, but also spent 18 years in professional hockey both as a player and a coach. As a player, he was considered one of the top defensive forwards in the league playing more than 1,000 games during his 15-year playing career with the New York Rangers and Washington Capitals, and was a Stanley Cup finalist with the Caps in 1998. As a coach, he served as an assistant for the Grand Rapids Griffins, Anaheim Ducks, and as Peter Laviolette’s top assistant for two years with the New York Islanders.

“Kelly is a strong leader whose background and experience represents so many aspects of what we want for our program,” Anastos said. “He had a very successful playing career both at Michigan State and in the NHL. More importantly, he knows what it takes to develop into an NHL player, both as a former player himself as well as through his NHL coaching experience. He shares in my vision for Spartan hockey, is passionate about Michigan State and will be a tremendous addition to our staff.”

“After working with Kelly for two years in the National Hockey League, I know the importance of his impact as he helped return the New York Islanders to the success to which they are accustomed,” said Laviolette, currently the coach of the Philadelphia Flyers. “Along with being a great leader, he is organized, smart and motivated. I know Kelly’s passion is hockey. He is a gifted hockey mind with a desire to return to the coaching ranks. Michigan State University now has a chance to share in that gift.”

Off the ice, Miller earned his M.B.A. during his professional career from Michigan State University (1995), and has been highly successful in the commercial real estate and banking industries, earning a graduate degree in banking from the prestigious Stonier School of Banking at the University of Pennsylvania. The Miller family name is perhaps the most well-known in the Spartan hockey program, as 10 members of the family – including Kelly, his brothers, Kevin and Kip, and their father, Lyle – all wore the Green & White.

“This opportunity to be a member of the Spartan hockey coaching staff with four such high-quality people is a dream come true for me,” said Miller. “I look forward to bringing my work ethic, knowledge and passion for the game to the rink each day to help create an atmosphere of energy and excitement that will develop student-athletes for the NHL and for life after hockey. After growing up watching the Amo Bessone era and playing for Coach (Ron) Mason, I understand the expectations of our alumni and the community for this hockey program and look forward to the challenges ahead.”

Newton has been a fixture within Spartan hockey for the last 21 years, and helped recruit some of the top talent in college hockey in addition to being a valuable educator and teacher with the current players and a constant liaison with former Spartan players from all eras of the program’s history. A member of the coaching staff for the 2007 NCAA champions, Newton is both well-known and well-respected within the college hockey community. Newton served on the American Hockey Coaches Association Board of Governors as the assistant coach representative from 1998-2001 and was that organization’s Terry Flanagan Award winner in 2004 (honoring an assistant coach’s body of work). He not only works extensively with the program’s alumni, but runs the program’s annual pro camp each August which brings most of MSU’s current professional players back to East Lansing for a week of on-ice training.

“Tom has been a fixture on the MSU staff for more than 20 years and has a wealth of college hockey coaching and recruiting experience,” Anastos continued. “He has been an integral part of the recruitment and development of many of the very best student-athletes who have played in the program during his tenure. He is highly organized and has very strong administrative skills as well.”

“I’m really very excited to be a part of this staff. I know the other staff members so well that I can say that the quality of person, the passion for Michigan State, and the passion for our hockey program could not be higher,” commented Newton. “Michigan State has been my home for a majority of my coaching life, and continuing with this program is a great thrill.”

Gilmore will join the staff as the team’s volunteer assistant coach and work with the team’s netminders. Gilmore was a Spartan letterwinner for four seasons (1989-92) and appeared in 64 career games, posting a 2.91 goals-against average and nearly 1,500 saves. He was a First-Team Academic All-American as a senior. This is not his first coaching experience with the Spartan program, as he served as the volunteer assistant from 1994-96 at the conclusion of his professional career and helped the team to two NCAA Tournament bids and a 53-25-4 overall mark.

“Mike Gilmore is a highly respected former player who knows what it takes to compete at a very high level,” noted Anastos. “Mike’s primary responsibility will be to work with our goaltenders to ensure that they have the development, leadership and support necessary to be high performers.”

“MSU and Spartan hockey have given me so much in my life that I can’t begin to convey how honored I am to now have the opportunity to return and contribute where needed,” said Gilmore. “I’m excited to get to know the current players and pass on some of the things I learned while wearing the Green and White. I’m very excited to work with a staff of Spartans that I looked up to when I was a player, and now have a chance to work with as a peer.”

Nightingale will continue in his duties as the team’s video coordinator. Nightingale, who played for the Spartans from 2003-05, was an alternate captain for both of his seasons in Green and White. He joined the MSU staff a year ago, and oversees all the team’s video operations, which include in-game analysis, logging video, scouting video and reports, and working one-on-one with players.

“Adam has quickly earned the respect of so many people surrounding the program, and it didn’t take me long to see his talent, intensity and passion for Spartan hockey,” Anastos said. “Adam has a tremendous work ethic, a strong knowledge of the game and will be an important part of our staff.”

Blashill gets extension at WMU

Western Michigan Press Release

Western Michigan has extended MiCHO coach of the year Jeff Blashill’s contract through the 2015–16 season.

According to a press release issued by WMU, Blashill’s guaranteed compensation will raise to $275,000 annually with the new deal.

“I am very excited to strengthen my commitment to Western Michigan University and the Bronco hockey program,” Blashill said in the release. “I am equally pleased to see Western Michigan’s commitment to building an elite Division I college hockey program with the support needed to win at the highest level nationally. This contract exhibits both. I believe we have attributes to offer our student-athletes and potential recruits that can set us apart nationally. The passion for Bronco hockey on our campus and in our community is unmatched.”

Blashill’s original contract, set to expire at the end of the 2014–15 season, will extend to the following season under this amendment. Incentives remain a part of Blashill’s financial package, reaching a possible $100,000 in additional income, and are tied to academic and athletic criteria.

“Our current CCHA membership will be shifting significantly with the current Big Ten members leaving to form their own Big Ten hockey league, beginning 2013–14,” added WMU athletic director Kathy Beauregard. “It is critical for WMU to demonstrate to the hockey world we are committed to aligning our university with those institutions within a conference that competes at the highest level of collegiate hockey. Coach Blashill’s contract extension sends that message loud and clear. This is a great day for all members of our Bronco family.”

Western Michigan reached the CCHA championship game for the first time since 1986 and earned a berth in the NCAA Tournament for the fourth time in school history during Blashill’s first season at the helm.

Who will be MTU's new head coach?

Commentary by MiCHO Staff

Who will replace Jamie Russell behind the Michigan Tech bench?

Early reports had the Huskies and University of Michigan assistant coach Mel Pearson agreeing on terms to make Pearson the 22nd head coach for the school.

Pearson is part of the Husky family, having played for MTU from 1977-1981.

His most famous goal was in the 1979 Great Lakes Invitational versus Michigan in the longest game in tournament history when Pearson had the game-winning goal in triple overtime.

At Michigan, Pearson had been behind the bench under Red Berenson for 21 years, all of which saw the Wolverines make the NCAA Tournament.

One MiCHO source said a press conference scheduled for today in Houghton had been cancelled.

Did Pearson get cold feet?

MiCHO sources also suggested Nebraska-Omaha head coach Dean Blais was offered the position and one source indicated former Wayne State and Western Michigan bench boss Bill Wilkinson may be in the running. Yet another source said Adrian coach and former Bowling Green assistant Ron Fogarty was on a short list of potential names.

As always, we will keep our readers up to date with any pertinent (and hopefully, official) news as it relates to the vacant MTU head coaching gig.

MSU formally introduces Anastos

Michigan State Press Release

Tom Anastos, a Michigan State alumnus who has excelled in the sport of hockey as a player, coach, administrator, and visionary, has been appointed today to the position of head coach of the Michigan State hockey program, according to an announcement made by Athletics Director Mark Hollis.

Anastos, who has served as the commissioner of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association since 1998, becomes just the sixth Michigan State hockey coach in program history and the fourth in the modern era.

“I am extremely excited about returning to Michigan State to lead the Spartan hockey program and once again be a part of the MSU Athletics Department family,” said Anastos. “I have obviously maintained a relationship with MSU and been in close contact with the hockey program for the last 13 years in my role with the CCHA, but this opportunity is incredibly special.

“The expectations I have for our program will be to compete annually for conference and national championships. That was the expectation when I was here as a player and as an assistant coach, and I don’t believe it should be any different in my role as head coach. In our locker room, we have quality young men who are good players, good students and good citizens, which are all hallmarks of this program. I am excited to get started, to hire a staff, and to get myself re-acclimated within the MSU community.”

“Bringing Tom Anastos into the MSU Athletics Department to run our hockey program brings someone with energy and passion not only for the sport of hockey, but for our University and program as well,” said Hollis. “He can attract high-caliber talent and develop those players into those who are attractive to the National Hockey League. He places a premium on education, and the drive and desire to compete for championships.

“Hockey is important in the state of Michigan, and it is also important to Michigan State. We will continue to provide the resources to appropriately support this program, and to best prepare our student-athletes for their personal future ... in the NHL and the business world.”

"Tom Anastos is an incredibly accomplished individual, and the same characteristics which have made him such a successful leader since his graduation from Michigan State will pay dividends for our hockey program, our entire athletic department and University," added Michigan State president Lou Anna K. Simon. "Tom is a dynamic individual who will be an asset for Team MSU as we move forward. There is no doubt that he is passionate about developing young people, and we are excited for our next era to begin."

Recognized by The Hockey News in each of the past five years on the list of the 100 most influential and powerful people in the sport (No. 46 in 2011), Anastos has an unrivaled passion for the game and savvy blend of administrative, business and communication skills, a Who’s Who list of connections, and has provided progressive vision and dynamic leadership for college hockey. He will now bring those traits to Michigan State to advance the on-ice success and stature in college hockey of his alma mater, where he will guide the Spartans into their 70th varsity season when the puck drops on Oct. 7 in the Icebreaker Tournament. He will also be helping Michigan State into the Big Ten Hockey Conference, as was recommended by athletic directors in an announcement on Monday, March 21 and would begin play with the 2013-14 season.

Anastos, who was honored as MSU’s “Distinguished Spartan” by the hockey program in 2004, both played and coached at his alma mater before stepping into an administrative role. He was a four-year letterwinner at Michigan State (1981-85) for former coach Ron Mason, and received his bachelor’s degree in construction management in 1987.

He was in the first class of Michigan State players to skate exclusively in the CCHA after MSU left the WCHA as he helped the Spartans to three Great Lakes Invitational titles, a regular-season CCHA Championship in 1985, and four consecutive CCHA Tournament titles. His Spartan teams made four NCAA Tournament appearances, finishing fourth in the country in 1984 and losing a heartbreaking quarterfinal series to Providence in 1985. As a senior, he earned second-team all-conference honors and was named to the all-tournament teams at the CCHA Tournament and Great Lakes Invitational.

In his career, Anastos skated in 151 games, scored 70 goals and recorded 73 assists for 153 points, and amassed 102 penalty minutes. He still holds the MSU record for short-handed goals in a season (7, scored in 1983-84), and ranks in a tie for fourth in the MSU annals with 10 career short-handed markers.

Anastos, a 2000 inductee into his hometown Dearborn Sports Hall of Fame, played junior hockey for the Paddock Pools Saints of the NAHL and was the first player ever drafted from the league by an NHL team when the Montreal Canadiens selected him in 1981. The sixth-round pick of Montreal (124th overall) played one season in the Canadiens organization, then joined the coaching staff at the University of Michigan-Dearborn where he served as head coach of that program from 1987-90, compiling a 68-37-7 record.

In the fall of 1990, Anastos returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach under Ron Mason. Those two teams went a combined 43-28-13, and in 1991-92, advanced to the Frozen Four, and lost to eventual national champion Lake Superior State, which was coached by current Notre Dame coach Jeff Jackson.

In his most recent role as CCHA commissioner, he has overseen the growth and changes in the membership over 13 years, and in April 2010, the CCHA played host to the record-breaking 2010 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four at Ford Field in Detroit, the first Frozen Four to be held in a non-traditional hockey venue. A crowd of 34,954 watched the semifinal games and 37,592 attended the title game between Boston College and Wisconsin. The individual day attendance marks and the three-game total of 72,546 easily shattered the Frozen Four records, and the title-game attendance figure stands as the North American record for an indoor hockey game.

In concert with his role of CCHA commissioner, Anastos has served as the president of the Hockey Commissioner’s Association, a group comprised of the five commissioners from NCAA Division I Hockey. The HCA addresses common issues and concerns at a national level, and the group’s efforts include on-going discussions with the NHL’s corporate office in New York, sponsorship of the annual Warrior Ice Breaker Tournament and the College Hockey All-Access radio show on NHL Home Ice XM 204, Sirius 208.

In 2009, in his capacity as president of the HCA, he spearheaded a college hockey delegation which traveled to Florida to meet with the 30 general managers of NHL teams. The same year, he was key in the procuring of a grant from the National Hockey League through USA Hockey. The funding was used by the Anastos-led HCA to create College Hockey Inc., an educational and promotional entity charged with raising the profile and help foster the growth of college hockey. Now in its second year, College Hockey Inc. is under the direction of executive director Paul Kelly, former head of the National Hockey League’s Players Association.

Anastos’ commitment to growing the sport has resulted in an annual statewide celebration known as “Hockey Day in Michigan” The grass roots initiative, which includes the live broadcast of two CCHA games on FOX Sports Detroit, has been successfully imitated by USA Hockey to encourage fans, players, coaches and officials to unite in their passion for their sport and help introduce others to the game.

Television also was a focal point for the CCHA under Anastos. The CCHA was the first hockey conference to sign television agreements with CBS College Sports (formerly CSTV), Toronto, Canada-based Leafs TV, and the NHL Network.

Prior to his appointment with the CCHA, Anastos served as president of the North American Hockey League, a Tier II junior league, for four seasons. During that time, the NAHL attracted strong ownership groups and developed into one of the top leagues for college-bound players in the United States.

Anastos is very active in amateur hockey, both as a coach in the Detroit-based Honeybaked hockey program and as an administrator. He is one of two NCAA representatives on USA Hockey’s board of directors and has been a long-time member of its International Council and Junior Council which oversees the activities of the organization’s international programs and US junior hockey.

Anastos also serves on the board of directors for One Goal, a non-profit organization comprised of hockey’s North American industry leaders seeking to improve awareness and understanding of hockey, so parents can make informed decisions about involving their families in the game. He also is a member of the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors.

Anastos, 47, lives in Farmington Hills with his wife, Lisa. They have five children: daughters Lauren, Jenna, Alyssa, and Andrea, and son Drew.

Spartans to name Anastos new coach

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

A Lansing TV station is reporting that current CCHA commissioner Tom Anastos will be named the new head coach at Michigan State and that a 4 p.m. press conference is scheduled to make the formal announcement.

More details to follow ...

Photo courtesy CCHA

Russell resigns as MTU head coach

Michigan Tech Press Release

Michigan Tech announced Wednesday that head coach Jamie Russell has resigned his position, effective immediately.

Russell recently completed his eighth season behind the Tech bench.

"Jamie is a person of great integrity, and he has worked hard to fulfill the mission of our athletic department and university," said Michigan Tech AD Suzanne Sanregret. "We wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

Russell posted a 70-197-37 record with the Huskies after being named to the position May 7, 2003. He had his best season in 2006-07 when Tech went 18-17-5 and earned a trip to the WCHA Final Five. The Huskies compiled a 4-30-4 record this season, which concluded last weekend in a first-round WCHA playoff loss at No. 1-ranked North Dakota.

During Russell's tenure, Tech had one Hobey Baker finalist, two All-Americans, five All-WCHA selections, 60 WCHA All-Academic Team selections and 16 WCHA Scholar-Athletes.

"I will really miss the Tech hockey players who have cared so much and worked so hard," said Russell. "It has been a privilege working with this team, and I wish them every success in the years to come.

"I want to thank all the people in the community who were so loyal to the Huskies -- through the good times and through the tougher times when we faced numerous injuries and the loss of some outstanding new recruits who were not to able to make it all the way to Tech ice. My family and I have enjoyed being a part of this community and will be saddened to leave, but look forward to the adventures ahead."

In addition to the departure of Russell, Sanregret announced that assistant coach Pat Mikesch will not return. His contract was not renewed. Mikesch spent the last seven years as an assistant under Russell.

The search for Michigan Tech's 21st head hockey coach will begin immediately.

"Our goal is to be successful in all aspects of the program-on and off the ice," said Sanregret. "A quality hockey program is a valued part of Michigan Tech's history, and we will work diligently to re-establish our position."

Photo by Matt Mackinder/MiCHO

MSU's Comley retiring at end of season

MSU Press Release

Rick Comley, one of the longest-tenured and most successful coaches in NCAA history, will retire from his position of head hockey coach at Michigan State University, effective at the end of the 2010-11 season. The announcement was made today at Comley’s weekly press conference.

Comley is currently in his ninth season as the head coach of the Spartans and his 38th season overall behind the bench of a collegiate hockey program. One of just two head coaches to win NCAA titles at two different institutions, the head coach of three national championship teams, and ranked among the top five coaches all-time in collegiate victories, Comley is among college hockey’s most accomplished mentors.

“I have been very proud to be a part of Michigan State hockey, and I would like to thank Ron Mason for giving me this opportunity nine years ago,” said Comley. “This program is very special, with a long tradition of success. I am very proud that we could bring a national championship here in 2007, and not only have we had good hockey players in our locker room, we have had quality young men who represented this program well in the classroom and in the community. I want to thank them, as well as my staff, for an experience at Michigan State that leaves me with many great memories.

“As I continue on as the head coach for the remainder of this season, our focus for our players and staff will not change. We have improved throughout this season, and it is important for all of us to continue to try to improve every day. While the end of my Michigan State career is on the horizon, we owe it to these players to continue with business as usual. We have two important games this weekend, and four more series after that – and each game is important. That is, and will remain, our focus in these coming weeks.”

“I have a great respect for Rick Comley, and his accomplishments not only at Michigan State, but throughout his 38-year coaching career,” said Michigan State athletics director Mark Hollis. “Coach Comley is among a distinguished group of coaches in his sport – one of the top-five in victories all-time, and among a handful to win national championships at two institutions. We thank him for his contributions to Michigan State hockey and our athletics department during his tenure.”

Highlights of his Michigan State tenure start with the 2007 national championship, and include the 2006 CCHA Tournament title, and Great Lakes Invitational titles in 2004, 2006, and 2009. He has had 12 former MSU players skate in the National Hockey League, 15 All-CCHA performers, six All-Americans, and three Hobey Baker finalists. In addition, four have earned Academic All-America honors, and three of the five winners of the CCHA’s Ilitch Humanitarian Award have played at MSU under Comley. Overall, Comley has coached 10 Hobey Baker Memorial Award finalists, 15 All-Americans, four league players of the year, 26 first-team all-league selections, and 85 academic all-league selections. As of January 22, he owns a 778-608-110 (.557) career record in 38 seasons and is one of just five coaches to surpass the 700-win plateau. He has recorded a 181-133-39 record in his MSU tenure.

Comley’s 2007 national champions finished fourth in the CCHA and third in the CCHA Tournament, but went on a magical run through the NCAA Tournament which featured victories over Boston University, Notre Dame, Maine, and Boston College - some of the most prominent programs in college hockey. That team finished with a 26-13-3 record, and each of his first six teams finished with 20 or more victories. The Spartans made three straight trips to the NCAA regional finals (2006, 2007, and 2008), and remain the only program since Denver won back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2005 to even return to the NCAA Tournament field the year after winning the national championship. The 2008-09 team was hit hard by graduation and players leaving early to the professional ranks, but his 2009-10 squad was ranked as high as sixth in both national polls, and finished second in the CCHA regular-season standings. The current team was ranked as high as 11th in the national polls this season.

“A thorough national search will begin immediately to identify Coach Comley’s successor as the head coach of the Michigan State hockey program,” said Hollis. “Hockey is important to our athletic department and our campus community, as well as to our fans. It is a program with a long and storied tradition. However, what is also important is to support the coaches and our hockey student-athletes for the remainder of this season.”

Comley arrived at MSU after spending 26 years (1976-2002) as the head coach at Northern Michigan. The first head coach in NMU hockey history, he compiled a 538-429-68 (.533) mark behind the Wildcat bench to become one of just 12 coaches to win 450 games at one school and one of 10 to post 500 victories at the same institution.

The Stratford, Ont., native guided Northern Michigan to CCHA regular-season championships and league postseason titles in 1980 and 1981. Comley also piloted the Wildcats to the WCHA regular-season crown in 1991 and WCHA playoff championships in 1989, 1991 and 1992. He is one of three individuals to have coached regular-season champions in the WCHA and CCHA, joining Bill Selman (North Dakota 1967 and St. Louis 1973, 1975 and 1977) and former MSU assistant coach George Gwozdecky (Miami 1993 and Denver 2002, 2005) on that exclusive list.

Prior to his MSU tenure, Comley’s greatest team was the 1990-91 Northern Michigan unit which captured the WCHA regular-season and playoff championships and capped the year by winning the NCAA title. The Wildcats posted a 38-5-4 overall record and a 25-3-4 mark in conference play, concluding the season with a thrilling 8-7 come-from-behind victory over Boston University in triple overtime in the national championship game in St. Paul, Minn. NMU finished the season with a school record 26-game unbeaten streak.

Prior to the 1990-91 season, Comley’s top team was the 1979-80 squad which rolled to a 34-6-1 overall record and a 17-3-0 first-place standing in the CCHA. The Wildcats would go on to win the conference playoff crown and advance to the NCAA championship game before falling to North Dakota, 5-2, in the title match. In addition to national postseason appearances in 1980 and 1991, Comley took Northern Michigan teams to the NCAA Tournament on five other occasions - 1980-81, 1988-89, 1991-92, 1992-93 and 1998-99.

Comley has been presented the Spencer Penrose Memorial Award as college hockey’s national coach of the year in 1980 and 1991. He was named CCHA Coach of the Year in 1980 and 1981, and was honored as WCHA Coach of the Year in 1989 and 1991. He also served as coach for the West team at the 1981 Senior East-West All-Star Game.

In addition to serving as NMU hockey coach, Comley spent 13 years as the school’s athletics director from 1987-2000. During his tenure as AD, Northern Michigan constructed the $21-million Superior Dome, which has a capacity of 8,000 for the football team, the $12-million Berry Events Center, home of the hockey and men’s and women’s basketball programs, and the Tom Izzo-Steve Mariucci Academic Center.

The school’s 13-sport program also enjoyed widespread success under Comley’s leadership. The football program produced 10 winning seasons and advanced to the NCAA Division II semifinals in 1987. The women’s volleyball team won seven GLIAC titles and won NCAA Division II national championships in 1993 and 1994. The NMU women’s basketball squad won two GLIAC championships, made 10 trips to the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Regional Tournament, won two regional championships and made one Elite Eight appearance. The men’s basketball program won two GLIAC championships and made three visits to the NCAA Division II Tournament. The women’s swimming team won five GLIAC titles, including four in a row, and the men’s and women’s Nordic skiing teams competed on the national level with several student-athletes chosen for national squads that competed in Europe.

Comley began his coaching career at his alma mater, Lake Superior State, where he served as Mason’s varsity assistant and recruiter during the 1972-73 season. He was named the school’s head coach the following year after Mason’s departure to Bowling Green and guided the Lakers to a 59-46-3 mark from 1973-76, winning an NAIA national championship and a CCHA regular-season title in 1974.

A four-year letterwinner (1967-71) for Mason at Lake Superior State, Comley was a two-time NAIA All-American and served as team captain as a senior in 1971. He was voted the team’s most valuable player and won Lake Superior State’s Outstanding Athlete Award in 1971.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Lake Superior State in 1972 and a master’s degree in education from Northern Michigan in 1973. He was an honor student at Lake Superior, receiving the 1971 Kiwanis Scholastic Award in the School of Liberal Arts. He was inducted into the LSSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 1996 and into Northern Michigan’s in 1998.

Comley has been also been active in the community. He serves as the honorary chairman of the American Lung Association Asthma Walk and has also done so for the American Red Cross blood drive. He has also been part of the Coaches For Kids campaign, which raised money to build a pediatric emergency room at Sparrow Hospital.

The Comley file ...

Head Coaching Records:
• Lake Superior State: 59-46-3 (.560)
• Northern Michigan: 538-429-68 (.553)
• Michigan State: 181-133-39 (.568) (through Jan. 22)
• Overall Coaching Record: 778-608-110 (.557) (through Jan. 22)

Coaching Honors and Awards:
• Spencer Penrose Memorial Trophy (1980, 1991)
• CCHA Coach of the Year (1980, 1981)
• WCHA Coach of the Year (1989, 1991)
• NAIA National Championship in 1974 (LSSU)
• NCAA titles in 1991 (NMU) and 2007 (MSU)

Photo by Matt Mackinder/MiCHO