The Wisconsin Badgers men's hockey program has significantly bolstered its coaching and development ranks ahead of the 2026-27 season. This move signals a strong commitment to building on past successes and nurturing future talent, following their impressive run to the NCAA championships last season.
Wisconsin Men's Hockey Welcomes Star-Studded Coaching Additions
In a major announcement, Head Coach Mike Hastings of the Wisconsin Badgers men's hockey team recently unveiled the completion of his coaching staff with three impactful additions. The new recruits bring a blend of collegiate familiarity, extensive NHL experience, and legendary status to the program. Andy Brandt, a former Badger player and respected coach, returns to his alma mater. Steve Briere, a veteran NHL goaltending coach, is set to elevate the team's netminding development. Most notably, Wisconsin hockey icon and former NHL star, Joe Pavelski, joins as the director of player development.
Andy Brandt, a Wausau native and key member of Wisconsin's 2006 national championship team, transitions back to the Badgers as an assistant coach. His tenure as the head coach and general manager of the USHL's Madison Capitols saw him lead the team to 104 regular-season victories and a remarkable .599 winning percentage, including a recent trip to the conference finals. Brandt's previous experience with Coach Hastings in the 2022-23 season ensures a seamless integration into the team's structure.
Steve Briere arrives in Madison as the new director of goaltending development, bringing a decade of NHL experience. His most recent role was with the Seattle Kraken for three seasons, where he was instrumental in the development of goaltenders Philipp Grubauer and Joey Daccord. Prior to that, Briere served seven seasons as the head goaltending coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs. His profound understanding of elite goaltending will be an invaluable asset for the Badgers' netminders.
Perhaps the most celebrated addition is Joe Pavelski, a true Wisconsin legend and a U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, who will take on the role of director of player development. Pavelski's contribution to the Badgers' 2006 national championship victory was followed by an illustrious 18-year NHL career, where he accumulated 1,068 points in 1,332 regular-season games. Concluding his NHL career in 2024, Pavelski holds the distinction of being the all-time leading scorer among Wisconsin alumni in the NHL. He also competed in two Stanley Cup Finals and represented the United States in two Olympic Games. His direct involvement offers current Badgers players an unparalleled opportunity to learn from one of the most successful American-born NHL players in history.
The integration of these highly accomplished individuals alongside associate head coach Todd Knott and assistant coach Nick Peruzzi creates a formidable coaching ensemble. This strategic enhancement of the coaching staff is expected to infuse the program with renewed energy, cutting-edge strategies, and a strong winning ethos, paving the way for a promising 2026-27 season.
The assembly of such a distinguished coaching staff for the Wisconsin men's hockey team reflects a forward-thinking approach to collegiate sports. It underscores the understanding that success is not only built on talent but also on the guidance and wisdom of experienced mentors. The presence of figures like Joe Pavelski, who has transitioned from a collegiate star to an NHL icon, offers a tangible pathway for aspiring players. This move could inspire a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams with greater dedication, knowing they have access to an elite level of mentorship that bridges the gap between college and professional hockey. It's a clear statement of intent from the Badgers: they are serious about cultivating not just winning teams, but also well-rounded, highly skilled individuals prepared for the highest levels of the sport.
