Magicians (NAHL) Hire Stu Bickel as Head Coach

The Minnesota Magicians (NAHL) have hired former NHL’er Stu Bickel as the team’s head coach. Bickel, who played college hockey at Minnesota, had been a graduate assistant with the Gophers the last two seasons.

“After meeting with Magicians’ ownership, management, and hockey staff, it was easy to see that they are fully committed to taking this organization to the next level. I am thankful for the trust that Scott, Ron, Joe and A.J. have in my ability and I am honored to coach in the NAHL,” Bickel says. 

“Our goal is to create the best possible development opportunity for our players.  Aside from that, we are in what is likely the best market in the United States in terms of exposure to college coaches and professional scouts.  There is a tremendous amount of potential here and I will do everything I can to help our players achieve their goals.  That starts with meeting with each guy and getting to know them on a personal level.  I couldn’t be more excited to get going.”

At Minnesota, he worked with both forwards and defensemen.  Prior to joining the Gophers staff in 2018, the Minnesota native played 10 years professionally, including 76 regular-season NHL games with the New York Rangers and the Minnesota Wild as well as 18 Stanley Cup playoff games with the Rangers.

“Our organization is thrilled to have Stu join our staff as Head Coach. Stu’s passion, work ethic and experience as a player and coach will be a tremendous addition to our team. His vision and desire to be the best is admirable. We are excited for the future of our organization with Stu on board,” said team president and GM A.J. Bucchino.