The Michigan hockey team continues to bolster its personnel ahead of yet another crack at the long-awaited tenth national championship. On Monday, the Wolverines announced the hiring of Chris Lazary as associate head coach.
Lazary brings with him years of experience in the sport. After building his coaching career with several Canadian programs at both the collegiate and junior hockey levels, he found his way to the Mitten State with the Ontario Hockey League’s Saginaw Spirit, where he took over as head coach in 2018. The Spirit enjoyed great success under Lazary’s leadership, claiming three West Division Championships and the franchise’s first Memorial Cup championship in 2024. As he arrives in Ann Arbor, he brings with him a history of success at high levels and a penchant for player development.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity to join the University of Michigan as associate head coach,” Lazary said. “Michigan is one of the premier programs in college hockey, with a rich tradition of excellence and a standard that is recognized across the sport. I want to thank (Wolverines) coach Brandon Naurato and (University of Michigan Athletic Director) Warde Manuel for their belief and trust in me.”
Wanting to suppress the bitter aftertaste of yet another Frozen Four loss, Michigan has looked for new blood to push an already potent roster over the line. And Lazary, with his bags of experience, is yet another valuable addition to that cohort.
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