Elmira College Alum Reaches NHL Coaching Ranks

ELMIRA , NY - Former Elmira College ice hockey standout, Mike Haviland ’90, was hired as an assistant coach for the Chicago Blackhawks.

Haviland, 41, graduated from Elmira College tied for ninth on the College’s all time scoring list with 68 goals. His 39 markers in the 1989-90 season are the third best single season mark in the program’s history.

At the conclusion of his collegiate career Haviland played professionally for the AHL’s Binghamton Whalers, the ECHL’s Richmond Renegades, and Winston-Salem Thunderbirds. His career was cut short due to injury.

Haviland found new success as the head coach for the Blackhawks’ AHL affiliate in Rockford (2007-08) and Norfolk (2005-07). The Middletown, NJ native also captured two ECHL Kelly Cups during his tenure with the Atlantic City Broadwalk Bullies and the Trenton Titans over his seven year coaching career.

Last season, Haviland led the IceHogs to the second round of the playoffs after posting a 44-26-4-6 regular season record (.613). Coach Haviland has posted a .600 or better winning percentage in six of his seven seasons. As a coach he has yet to miss the playoffs. His efforts were rewarded in 2007 with the Louis A.R. Pieri Memorial Award, an honor given annually to the AHL’s Coach of the Year.