THE ICE SHEET-- The Ogden Mustangs, now led by Sean and Kimberly Wilmert, are pleased to announce the hiring of new Head Coach and General Manager Kenny Orlando.
"We are honored to hire Kenny as the first Head Coach and GM under our leadership. Kenny brings the skill sets and focus that we are looking for to take the Ogden Mustangs into the United States Premier Hockey league. Having the experience of coaching in the NAHL brings along the development skills to advance our players to the highest level possible."
Orlando joins the Mustangs from the Austin Bruins of the NAHL where he served as Assistant Coach last season. Orlando's offensive prowess helped lead the forward group as well as the power-play units. This past season the Bruins power-play unit converted at a 23.1% clip and tied for best in the Central Division. His ability to break down film and access team strengths and weaknesses was crucial for the Bruins.
Before heading to Austin, Orlando has also previously served as Head Coach of Villanova University (ACHA) from 2017-19. Orlando saw great success with the IceCats in his two-year stint with the program and appearing in the ECHA playoffs in both seasons. In his first season, the Villanova University IceCats went all of the way to the ECHA Championship. Their Cinderella story fell just short in overtime to Drexel University. His first year eventually paved the way for a record of 33-29-3 combined as Head Coach. Before making his collegiate head coaching debut, he also served as Assistant Coach at Temple University (ACHA).
"It's an honor to have the opportunity to work for the Ogden Mustangs, who have been a prestigious franchise over the past decade. I am extremely excited to work with the players and place a quality product on the ice. I look forward to working with Sean and Kimberly. Sean and I had an instant connection. His dedication and insight as an owner made it easy for me to want to represent the Mustangs and help continue to grow the reputation of the organization that they have earned over the years."
While he was a player, Orlando's career covered a vast majority of the United States and parts of Canada. He was a member of the New Mexico Renegades of the WSHL in 2011-13, where he was the leading scorer and Captain. He attended and played hockey for SUNY-Canton (Division III) before his career was cut short due to injury. However, this helped pave the way for him to jump straight into a career in coaching that has been nothing short of astounding.
"The Mustangs were always a very competitive organization. Everyone knew you had to be your best if you wanted a chance to earn a victory over them. It is the same mindset I intend to instill in the rest of the USPHL when facing the Mustangs for years to come."
Orlando hails from Chalfont, PA, where he and his family are the proud owners of Hatfield Ice Arena in Colmar, PA. During the off-season, Orlando returns home to organize camps and training for young aspiring hockey players. His work ethic, integrity, and desire to grow the game of hockey help re-affirm his quick ascension in the hockey ranks. It will be a quick transition for Orlando as the beginning of the season looms near; however, he is ready, and we should be as well.
"Fans should anticipate watching a team filled with excitement, dedication, and a desire to be the best. I will push the players to match the passion coming from the coaching staff on the ice each and every night."
Stay tuned for further announcements regarding Head Coach Kenny Orlando and the Ogden Mustangs.
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