Plymouth Whalers, Compuware AAA announce coaching changes with the Vigilante brothers

By @MichaelCaples –

The offseason moves continued for the Plymouth Whalers today, as they announced both staff changes for the OHL club and their AAA youth program, as well.

The Whalers have hired former player John Vigilante as the team’s new assistant coach. The 29-year-old Vigilante, who was hired to be the head coach of the Compuware midget major club in August, will now join new head coach Don Elland behind the bench for the upcoming 2014-15 season. He is filling in for former associate coach Joe Stefan, who was recently promoted to assistant GM.

Replacing Vigilante as coach of the midget major program will be his brother, Mike, who played college hockey for Lake Superior State from 1997-2001. Mike Vigilante, 34, most recently served as head coach of the Team Detroit 19U girls’ hockey team, and he is a three-time state finalist in four years as a head coach.

“Playing in Plymouth is still one of the highlights of my career,” said John Vigilante.  “To come back and be part of it again from a different perspective – and fresh out of playing the game where I have knowledge of modern-day hockey – is something I’m excited to be able to share with the guys.  I’m looking forward to continuing to help the Whalers in their great tradition here in Plymouth.”

Compuware AAA director Mike Henry is confident in his new midget major coach, as well.

“Mike and John bring the same passion and enthusiasm to their teams,” said Henry.  “We were impressed with John in the short term, but long-term, Mike Vigilante will do an excellent job in the same way.   The Midget Majors are in good hands with Mike and assistant Damian Surma.  They are coaching for all the right reasons and will help our players reach their goals.”