HO-HO-KUS, NJ - The Atlantic Affiliate is pleased to announce the appointment of Ryan Carter as Coach-in-Chief and Mike Lichtenberger as Vice President of Protests, Suspensions & Appeals effective immediately.

Lichtenberger previously served as Coach-in-Chief for 17 years, leading the coaching education program. During his tenure, the coaching program has expanded, offering more development opportunities for coaches focused on girls hockey, goaltending coaching, and disabled sections.

“Mike has made a profound impact on our coaches and the entire coaching education process,” remarked AAHA President Glenn Hefferan. “The best part for the Affiliate is, we aren’t losing anyone. Mike will transition over to his new role and his institutional knowledge will make the transition quite seamless.”

“I have had the opportunity to work with many people at the national and regional levels and that contributed to establishing a culture for coaching excellence within our district,” said Lichtenberger. “Though I am transitioning to a new role with the affiliate, I am excited to continue to have an impact on coaching development, player development, and the pursuit of excellence in the Atlantic Amateur Hockey Association.”

Carter was selected and appointed by USA Hockey, following the recommendation of three candidates by the Atlantic Affiliate. He has been a Level 5 USA Hockey Coach for ten years and is currently Head Coach at Saint Joseph - Metuchen and a member of the New Jersey Colonials coaching staff.

“I am tremendously honored and humbled to receive the appointment of Atlantic Affiliate Coach-in-Chief from USA Hockey,” said Carter. “I look forward to working closely with the coaching education staff and all Affiliate stakeholders as we strive to achieve the common goal of providing a quality and positive experience that continues to grow the game.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Ryan Carter from his days as a high school athlete,” said Hefferan. “He has been an integral member of the Coaching Education staff for several years and has recently stepped up to assist the Affiliate in other leadership capacities. He will make an excellent Coach-in-Chief and the Affiliate is very pleased with USA Hockey’s selection.”

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