Michigan State Names Adam Nightengale New Head Hockey Coach

Michigan State University has named former Spartan player Adam Nightengale as the school's new head hockey coach, according to a press release on Tuesday morning.

He is the school's eighth head coach in its history.  He succeeds Danton Cole, who was let go by the university last month.

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Nightengale has spent the last two seasons coaching the U.S. National Team Development Program Under-18 team in Ann Arbor.

He played for Michigan State from 2003-05 after starting his college playing career at Lake Superior State.  He was an alternate captain during his time in East Lansing.

He's also coached in the NHL with the Buffalo Sabres and the Detroit Red Wings over four seasons.

MSU Athletic Director Alan Haller talked about the hire on Tuesday:

 "Adam has a passion for the school and the program, and his combination of skill development, player development and recruiting ties promises to make the next era of Spartan hockey a successful chapter in the storied history of a proud program."

Also..."One thing rang very clear throughout this process. Michigan State is one of the premier college hockey programs in the country. Everyone, from alumni to our loyal fans, has high expectations each and every year. I hope they're all smiling today because the future is bright for Spartan hockey. We will take the ice this fall in a renovated Munn Ice Arena, and across the board there is a renewed commitment to the program. Perhaps most importantly, Adam brings a thorough understanding of where we are as a program, and a clear plan for what's required to once again reach championship heights."

Coach Nightengale will be formally introduced on campus next Monday at a press conference.