Thursday, June 6, 2013

Muskegon Lumberjacks Tab Todd Krygier to Lead Program

Press Release

 The Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced that Todd Krygier, the former University of Connecticut All-American, NHL veteran, and 12-year head hockey coach, has been named the team’s new head coach effective immediately.

“Todd Krygier has been a driving force in the success of building teams and developing talent since he retired as a professional player in 2000.  Todd has been where our student-athletes are and he accomplished what they are dreaming of,” said Lumberjacks President Tim Taylor.  “We had a number of very strong coaching candidates interested in the position, however, Todd’s experience as a student-athlete, professional player, business leader, and most importantly, as a successful coach of young men focused on developing both hockey skills and character set him apart in our eyes.”

Krygier, 47, was the first and only player in the history of the University of Connecticut to play in the National Hockey League.  The Chicago Heights, Illinois native played 543 games in the NHL from 1989 to 1998 with the Hartford Whalers, Anaheim Mighty Ducks, and Washington Capitals while totaling 243 points (100 goals and 143 assists) during a 12-year professional career.  He helped lead the Washington Capitals to their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1998 before losing to the Detroit Red Wings.

Krygier has been involved in coaching hockey in Michigan since he retired as a player in 2000.

“Throughout the last 12 years, I dedicated myself to teaching, training, and developing hockey players in Michigan.  At every level and age group, we worked hard, had success, and won team championships,” said Krygier.  “Our team achieved high rankings at both the state and national levels, and we helped develop players that are competing on top junior teams and NCAA Division I programs.”

Previously, Krygier led Novi High School to its first Division One state championship, Compuware Pee Wee Youth Hockey Team to their first state championship, Team Metro West to their first gold medal in the Meijer State Games, and Team Michigan to their first Minnesota Showcase Tournament championship in the last 35 years.

“I am honored and humbled to have this opportunity, and I am thankful to Tim (Taylor) and the new ownership team at Muskegon.  I could not be more impressed with Tim and the new ownership group and I am excited about the privilege and responsibility to further develop the skills and character of Muskegon Lumberjack student-athletes,” said Krygier.  “We will hold ourselves to the highest standards, compete with honor and integrity, and will do everything in our power to make the Muskegon community proud to be associated with their Muskegon Lumberjacks.”

Todd received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance from the University of Connecticut in 1987 and is married to Kim.  Todd and Kim currently live in Northville, Michigan, and have five children in Brock (20), Natalie (18), Grace (14), Cole (12), and Christian (12).

The Lumberjacks will be hosting tryout camp June 10th-15th at the L.C. Walker Arena.  The camp is open to the public and will include some meet and greet opportunities with coaches and staff.  

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

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