Lussier lands in Flint
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan native Cole Lussier has been hired by the Flint Firebirds of the Ontario Hockey League as their new video coach and administrative assistant.
The 24-year old Lussier was a top forward with the under 16 Soo Thunder and under 18 Soo Indians before moving on to play at the junior level in both the Central Canada Hockey League and North American Hockey League.
Lussier recently graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in pre-law. He becomes part of a new direction staff in Flint that includes president of hockey operations Terry Christensen, head coach Ted Dent, associate coach Kris Sparre, assistant coach Jared Nightingale and head scout Mike Oliverio.
Oliverio, a former OHL star with the Soo Greyhounds of many years ago, is a Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario product as is Firebirds holdover Niagara area regional scout Freddie Coccimiglio.
Christensen, as the hockey boss in Flint, took note of the hiring of Lussier as the latest addition to the Firebirds coaching staff.
“We are really excited to have Cole be part of our hockey operations and coaching staff,” Christensen relayed. “He will be an important part for us in helping to develop and make our players better through both of his roles with the team.”
And Dent as the new head coach, likes what he has in Lussier.
“Cole comes as a highly recommended coach in the hockey community,” Dent noted. “He is going to definitely be a big part of the coaching staff and we are happy to have him on board.”
During his time at Michigan State, Lussier volunteered for youth hockey programs at local rinks in the area.
“Just an honour that I’ll be able to learn from some prestigious hockey minds among Terry (Christensen) and all of the coaches,” Lussier said. “To be a part of something special like this is something I really look forward to.”
“The professionalism through the process was something really enjoyable and great to experience,” Lussier said. “This is a great situation and great organization. I look forward to winning here in Flint.”