29-03-2025
Ferris State picks next hockey coach
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Ferris State University has hired its next hockey coach.
Longtime head coach Bob Daniels, who spent 33 years as the Bulldogs' head coach, announced in January that this season would be his last.
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Longtime Ferris State hockey coach Bob Daniels to retire
Now, the university has found Daniels' replacement: Brett Riley, who comes to Big Rapids from Long Island University in New York. Riley has been head coach there since 2020. This season, he led the LIU Sharks to their winningest season in program history, according to a release from Ferris State University.
Riley comes from a 'legendary college hockey family' and is a third-generation hockey coach, the release says. Both his father and his grandfather coached at Army West Point, and his grandfather coached the gold-winning 1960 Olympic team.
The university noted Riley's commitment to helping players reach their potential.
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'Brett brings a tremendous passion for the game of hockey and outstanding energy,' stated Ferris State Athletic Director Steve Brockelbank. 'He also has displayed the ability to attract and develop talented players both on and off the ice, which is essential in today's game.'
In a statement, Riley said he was 'incredibly honored and excited' to become head coach.
'Coach Daniels has built a strong foundation both on and off the ice and I am committed to carrying that legacy forward, honoring the work he's done and continuing to elevate this program on and off the ice,' he said.
Riley will be the Bulldogs' sixth head coach.
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