Former Phantoms Captain Returns To Youngstown In Coaching Role

Press Release

Youngstown, OH - The Youngstown Phantoms, proud member of the United States Hockey League, announced today the hiring of Rob Rassey as assistant coach. He joins first-year head coach Anthony Noreen and fellow assistant Brad Patterson behind the bench for the Phantoms 2011-2012 campaign.

Rassey, a native of Shelby Township, MI, returns to the Mahoning Valley after starring for the Phantoms of the North American Hockey League from 2003-2005. The two-time captain appeared in 111 games over two seasons, leading his teams in scoring both years, with 53 points (19g, 34a) in the 2003-04 season, and 72 points (29g, 43a) the following year.

"I had a great experience in Youngstown as a player and I'm excited to be back as a part of the coaching staff," Rassey said. "I have a great deal of respect for (owner) Bruce Zoldan and the organization and it's an honor to be working alongside coaches Noreen and Patterson."

He went on to attend Northeastern University, where from 2005-2009 he skated in 123 games, acquiring 13 goals and 17 assists for the Huskies. He was a 4-time letterman, a 4-time Hockey East Academic Honor Roll recipient, including being named a Hockey East Distinguished Scholar in 2009; and recipient of the 2008 Coaches' Award for loyalty and friendship to the NU hockey program.

Following the completion of his degree in finance and management, Rassey took a volunteer coaching position with his alma mater. From 2009-2011 he honed his skills under the tutelage of Greg Cronin, now an assistant coach with the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs, compiling a 30-32-10 record.

"We're extremely excited to bring Rob back to the Phantom family," Noreen said. "There's a great deal that he can bring to our organization after working at Northeastern the last two seasons. Just as importantly Rob is passionate about the game of hockey and is someone who takes pride in being a Phantom."

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)