Men's Ice Hockey 2/20/2023 5:00:00 PM

Lumberjacks Reshape Organization Top to Bottom Where Culture Resonates

Muskegon, MI (February 20, 2023) – The Muskegon Lumberjacks organization is proud to announce a new focus on building a strong culture from top to bottom with a reshaping of their hockey operations department. The emphasis on a strong culture around the organization provides the opportunity to focus on team success and the development of players during their time in the United States Hockey League. "Culture eats strategy and analytics for lunch" said
Lumberjacks President of Hockey Operations Steve Lowe. The reshaping includes the announcement of adding Darryl Belfry as Vice President of Hockey Operations. Belfry, a globally recognized leader in the development of NHL stars such as Sidney Crosby, Auston Matthews and Kyle Okposo. The additions to the staff also include Assistant General Manager Tom Walsh, Skills Coach Andrew DeBrincat and Strength Coach Derek VandenBosch. Below is a look at the newly revealed Hockey Operations Department in Muskegon:

Steve Lowe, President of Hockey Operations
Darryl Belfry, VP of Hockey Operations
Jimmy McGroarty, General Manager
Parker Burgess, Head Coach
Tom Walsh, Assistant General Manager
CJ Kusch, Assistant Coach
Adam Morrison, Video Coach
Andrew DeBrincat, Skills Coach
Dave Desander, Goaltending Coach
Derek VandenBosch, Strength Coach
Ian Wood, Head Athletic Trainer
Kyle Wagner, Head Equipment Manager
Ezra Gennello, Director of Communications/Broadcaster
Wade Chiodo, Scout- Minnesota Region
Vincent Montalbano, Scout-East Coast Region
Jason Williams, Scout-Western Canada

Head Coach Parker Burgess and Assistant Coach CJ Kusch have both signed contracts to extend their time with the Muskegon Lumberjacks. When asked about the culture, Burgess was quick to point to the team-first mentality "1-0 today is our mantra. In Muskegon, no player is bigger than the logo, and we make that known immediately," said Burgess.

Playing hockey in Muskegon is more than just playing Tier I junior hockey. It's about joining a community and developing your skills on and off the ice. The focus on development is implemented numerous ways including their partnership with Trinity Health Sport Performance. The 6,000 square foot facility provides the players with a full-size weight room and turf field used for team workouts and personal access throughout the day. On the ice, players not only have team practices, but also skills sessions and PODS that allow them to focus on their individual development. The future is now for Muskegon hockey. Building a strong culture that focuses team success and player development creates a bright future for the organization. Lowe made his plans for the Lumberjacks future clear "The future is bright, and my promise to the city of Muskegon, the community, the fans, and all of West Michigan is I will bring a championship back."

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