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Chicago Blackhawks introduce world championship winner as assistant coach
Photo credit: Sandro Halank
The Chicago Blackhawks have officially introduced Mike Vellucci as their third hired coach of the offseason.
This means Kevin Dean is officially fired from the organization.
In Chicago, a completely revamped coaching unit will be behind the bench for the 2025-26 season. Hiring Jeff Blashill as head coach was the first step of the process.
A few days after announcing Anders Sorensen would remain an assistant coach and the hiring of former NHLer Michael Peca in the same functions, the organization revealed that another member was added to their coaching staff.
Indeed, the team confirmed that Mike Vellucci will join as an assistant coach as well:
"The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that Mike Vellucci has been hired as an assistant coach under Head Coach Jeff Blashill. Vellucci joins assistants Michael Peca and Anders Sorensen, goaltending coach Jimmy Waite, assistant coach/video Matt Meacham and assistant video coach Adam Gill to round out new Head Coach Jeff Blashill's coaching staff."
In official comments, Blashill highlighted that Vellucci's recent gold medal win at the World Championship with Hawks players Frank Nazar and Alex Vlasic with Team USA will bring valuable experience to the group:
"I'm looking forward to working alongside Mike, who has excelled behind the bench at every level, as both a head and assistant coach. Serving as an assistant coach at the World Championship this summer and winning a gold medal for our country alongside Frank Nazar and Alex Vlasic will bring such valuable experience to this group. That kind of championship-caliber background only makes our team better, and I'm excited to get to work."
Vellucci also worked with the Pittsburgh Penguins under Mike Sullivan for five seasons and led the Charlotte Checkers, the Florida Panthers' AHL affiliate team, to a Calder Cup in 2019.
Known for his player development skills and ability to create winning environments, Vellucci brings a wealth of experience that aligns perfectly with the organization's new vision.
Under Blashill, Peca, Sorensen, and Vellucci, the Hawks' young core will be in an environment to thrive and achieve their full potential.
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