After a successful first season as head coach, West Chester native Nick Luukko has signed a multi-year contract extension with the Jacksonville Icemen of the ECHL, a professional ice hockey league, writes Chris Porter for First Coast News. 

In the 2021-22 season, Luukko helped guide the team to 40 wins, the most in franchise history. With Luukko at the helm, the Icemen also won a playoff series for the first time in their five years at Jacksonville. 

“I am excited to continue to work with a great staff and help develop great players and assist them to reach the next level,” said Luukko. “We had a tremendous season last year, but I believe we have a whole other level to achieve, and I am excited to be a part of it.” 

Before joining the Icemen, Luukko served as an assistant coach of the Reading Royals from 2019-2021. As a player, he was a defenseman with the Royals for four seasons. He also made seven American Hockey League appearances with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.

“We are beyond thrilled to have Nick return and remain with our organization,” said Icemen CEO Andy Kaufmann. “Nick has helped elevate our team to the next level, both on the ice and in the community. He has established a culture here that our players have embraced. We are confident that Nick will continue to develop players to the next level, while bringing our organization to new heights for our fans to enjoy for the years to come.”

Read more about Nick Luukko at First Coast News.