Thursday, May 23, 2013

MATT MCILVANE NAMED ASSISTANT COACH OF THE CHICAGO STEEL

Press Release

Orlando, FL - The Orlando Solar Bears announced today that former Solar Bears Assistant Coach Matt McIlvane has been named the Assistant Coach for the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League (USHL).

McIlvane played 100 professional hockey games from 2007-11 and was an eighth round pick (251st overall) of the Ottawa Senators in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. His playing career includes stops in the ECHL, CHL, IHL, and the DEL in Germany. Prior to turning pro, McIlvane played three seasons in juniors, including one season with the Chicago Steel in 2003-04, and spent four years as a member of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Matt McIlvane

A native of Naperville, IL, McIlvane served as the Head Coach and General Manager of the Danville Dashers in the Federal Hockey League (FHL) during the 2011-12 season. He became an assistant coach with the Solar Bears in July of 2012.

"I'm very thankful for the opportunity that the Solar Bears ownership and Drake Berehowsky gave me to improve my coaching skills," said McIlvane. "That opportunity helped me grow as a young coach and it was an honor to be part of the inaugural season. The professionalism of the Orlando Solar Bears organization is second to none, and the passion of the fans helped make Orlando a great place to coach."

"We are very excited for Matt to get this opportunity," said Head Coach Drake Berehowsky. "He did an excellent job with the Solar Bears this season, and the job with the Steel will help him continue to gain valuable experience as a coach. I am thankful for his hard work with the Solar Bears and wish him the best in his future endeavors."

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

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