Todd Krygier named new assistant coach of Grand Rapids Griffins

By @MichaelCaples –

Todd Krygier’s moving from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids.

The Griffins announced today that they have hired the Western Michigan assistant coach for the same position with the AHL franchise.

“Combining his playing and coaching experiences, Todd understands what it takes to develop players to the next level,” Griffins head coach Ben Simon said in a release. “He is extremely genuine and passionate about his work and is a great communicator and teacher. He has a creative mind for offense and has had a lot of success running the power play on the teams he has coached.

“I look forward to working with Todd as he will bring new ideas to challenge and support our staff. I believe his personality and work ethic will be a great addition not only to our staff, but also the great prospects we have in Grand Rapids.”

Krygier spent the last three seasons working with Andy Murray in Kalamazoo, helping the Broncos to a 58-47-8 record in the time frame. In 2017, Western Michigan reached the NCAA Tournament; in 2019, they finished third in the NCHC to tie a program-best mark.

“Todd was a tremendous part of our success over the past three seasons,” Murray said in a release. “His work on the recruiting trail has helped ensure the future success of this program and his coaching and mentorship has helped improve our current student-athletes.”

Prior to joining WMU, he was the head coach of the Muskegon Lumberjacks. Krygier, whose twin sons Christian and Cole play for Michigan State, started his coaching career with Novi High School.

A Chicago Heights, Ill., native, Krygier played for Connecticut before a professional hockey career that spanned 12 seasons.