Full Breakdown
Brett Larson Appointed Head Coach of Minnesota Gophers Men's Hockey
3/24/2026, 8:26:55 PM
Transition in Leadership at Minnesota Hockey
Brett Larson has been named the new head coach of the University of Minnesota men's ice hockey program, following the departure of Bob Motzko. The announcement was made by Mark Coyle, the university's Director of Athletics, who emphasized Larson's extensive coaching experience and leadership qualities. Larson has signed a five-year contract, pending approval from the Board of Regents and completion of a background check.
Larson's Coaching Background
Larson, who has spent the past eight seasons as head coach of the St. Cloud State University Huskies, achieved notable success during his tenure. He led the Huskies to four NCAA Tournament appearances, two conference championships, and the program's first national championship game in 2021. His overall record at St. Cloud State stands at 153 wins, 116 losses, and 23 ties, ranking him fourth in the program's history.
Before his time at St. Cloud State, Larson served as an assistant coach at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where he contributed to national championship victories in 2011 and 2018. He also held positions as head coach and general manager of the Sioux City Musketeers in the United States Hockey League and as an associate head coach at Ohio State.
Official Statements and Responses
Mark Coyle expressed confidence in Larson's ability to lead the Gophers, stating, "Brett brings extensive coaching experience at both the collegiate and international levels... He understands the responsibility that comes with this job and our expectation to compete at the highest level." Larson himself remarked, "It is a tremendous honor to lead this historic program... I am both humbled and energized to carry that torch forward."
Criticism and Opposition
Despite Larson's successful track record, some critics have pointed out that the Huskies' performance had been declining in recent seasons, with a record of 16-19-1 in the 2025-26 season and missing the NCAA Tournament for three consecutive years. This raises questions about the sustainability of his success at Minnesota, especially given the high expectations associated with the Gophers' storied hockey program.
What's Next for Minnesota Hockey
The Gophers are looking to rebound from a disappointing season that saw them win only 11 games and fail to reach the NCAA Tournament. Larson's appointment comes at a critical time as the university aims to revitalize its men's hockey program. He will be formally introduced at a news conference, where further details about his vision for the team are expected to be shared.
Verbatim Quotes
- "I am excited for Brett to lead our men's hockey program and look forward to welcoming him, his wife Kelly, and their children, Lane and Calla, to Minnesota." — Mark Coyle, Director of Athletics
- "I have an incredible amount of respect for everyone who has played, coached, and built this program, and I am both humbled and energized to carry that torch forward." — Brett Larson, Head Coach
Brett Larson's appointment marks a new chapter for the Minnesota Gophers men's hockey team, as they seek to restore their competitive edge in collegiate hockey.
