Trevor Nill named assistant coach of Muskegon Lumberjacks

By Michael Caples –

The Muskegon Lumberjacks added a familiar last name to their coaching staff today.

Trevor Nill, the son of former Red Wings’ assistant GM Jim Nill, was named the Lumberjacks’ new assistant coach today. Nill, a four-year letter-winner at Michigan State University, completes the new coaching roster for the USHL club.

“It’s very exciting to have my first coaching gig be with such a class organization in the Muskegon Lumberjacks,” Nill said via a release from the team. “It was a no-brainer in my mind when I was approached about the job,” said Nill.  “Growing up, I always wished for a USHL team in Michigan, and now that I’m getting the chance to coach in that league while in my home state, it’s an unbelievable feeling.  It will also be great to work with two hockey geniuses in (new Muskegon GM John) Vanbiesbrouck and Coach (Todd) Krygier.”

Nill, who played for the Spartans from 2008-12, was recognized for what he did off the ice as much as he did on it. He was the recipient of the Mike and Marian Ilitch Humanitarian Award from the CCHA at the conclusion of the 2010-11 season, and he was also recognized as a Hockey Humanitarian Academic All-Big Ten selection.

“I’ve had the opportunity to get to know Trevor (Nill) over the years, and he is a great fit for our team as he adds a different dimension that can’t be found anywhere else,” said Lumberjacks Head Coach Todd Krygier.  “Trevor is a smart kid that played for one of the top hockey programs in the country (in Michigan State) and is enthusiastic about the game of hockey.  His experience and knowledge of the game at the collegiate level will provide a great teaching tool for our players to get to where they want to be within the next one to three years.”