Cam Critchlow has been unveiled as the new head coach of Manchester Storm ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Critchlow’s appointment comes just weeks after the former Storm captain made the decision to hang up his skates and retire from professional hockey.
He spent five seasons in Manchester, first joining the club in the summer of 2019.
Named assistant captain in his first season then captain ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, Critchlow went on to play just short of 300 games for Storm in the Elite League.
Critchlow becomes the club’s first permanent head coach since they parted ways with Mike Flanagan at the start of December after just over six months in charge.
“I’m honoured to take on the position of head coach for Manchester Storm,” he said.
“This organisation has been my home for several years, and I’m committed to building upon our strong foundation and striving for excellence on and off the ice.”
‘Strong leader’ Critchlow takes charge
Photo credit: Manchester Storm
Following the departure of former head coach Flanagan, the club were led by assistant Mike Morin on an interim basis for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.
Storm finished second-bottom of the Elite League, missing out on the end-of-season playoffs for the first time since 2021/22.
It has been confirmed that the experienced Morin, who has been involved in the club in various capacities since joining as a player during the 1996/97 season, will remain part of Critchlow’s backroom team, returning to his role as assistant.
Manchester Storm general manager Ryan Finnerty said: “Critch has been a key part of our leadership group for a long time.
“I’ve worked closely with him during my coaching days and even more so alongside Ginner, so I’ve seen first-hand the qualities that make him a strong leader.
“I really value the progression from player to coach – it’s a path many successful coaches in this league have taken.
“With the experience that Mikey and I bring, we’ll be there to support his transition, but I have complete confidence in Critch’s ability to lead the club forward after a challenging season.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to Mike Morin for stepping up when we needed him most.
“Having him return to support Critch gives us a wealth of experience behind the bench, and we’re confident heading into the 2025/26 season.”
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