Grand Rapids Reporter

A group of Ferris State University hockey alumni are making notable contributions in the coaching realm, influencing their teams' performance in international and professional competitions this month.

Derek Lalonde, a former assistant coach for Bulldog Hockey and now head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, is currently assisting the U.S. Men's National Team at the 2023 IIHF World Championships. The U.S. team remains undefeated as they approach the end of the preliminary round against Sweden on Tuesday, with quarterfinals commencing Thursday.

Seth Appert, another Ferris State alum, has guided the Rochester Americans to the American Hockey League (AHL) Eastern Conference finals for the first time in 19 years. The team is affiliated with the NHL's Buffalo Sabres. The Amerks will face off against the Hershey Bears as they start their conference finals campaign on Tuesday.

Greg Rallo, a former standout player and veteran professional, serves as an assistant coach for the Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL. Under his guidance, Milwaukee has reached the Western Conference Finals and will compete against Coachella Valley Firebirds starting Thursday in Palm Springs.

These coaches exemplify a tradition of success that Ferris State Hockey alumni have achieved both on ice and behind benches across all levels of professional hockey.