As reported by Scout.com, Danton Cole has apparently been hired as Michigan State hockey coach.
Cole, a former Spartan and NHL’er, has coached three years with the Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL), three years with the University of Alabama-Huntsville (NCAA) and most recently the US National Team Development Program.
During his playing career with MSU, Cole won a national championship back in 1986, and a Stanley Cup with the New Jersey Devils in 1995.
The hire comes mere hours after it was announced via twitter that George Gwozdecky, widely believed to be the frontrunner for the position, would stay with Valor Christian High School in Colorado.
Having been a former coach with the USNTDP, Cole is well respected and known throughout Michigan hockey recruiting circles. These connections should serve him well in recruiting top talent to play in East Lansing.
Though his record is a little suspect, Cole brings a tough-nosed tenacity and enthusiasm to the Spartan bench. In some respects, he shares some coaching commonalities with Tom Izzo. If nothing else, Cole possesses a love for MSU and a motivation to make this program great if his reaction to Anastos’ resignation are any indication.
Danton Cole said he loves representing his country as @USAHockeyNTDP U-17s coach. He did say MSU was a "dream job." 2/2
— George Sipple ☕️ (@GeorgeSipple) March 21, 2017
.@USAHockeyNTDP U-17s coach Danton Cole said he'd serve in advisory role if asked: "It's time for Spartans to pull together." @MSU_Hockey
— George Sipple ☕️ (@GeorgeSipple) March 21, 2017
A date for the introductory press conference has not yet been announced.
