Ownership Change in Muskegon, Hamilton and Team Part Ways
Muskegon, MI- The Muskegon Lumberjacks have been sold to former IHL Turner Cup Champion, Peter Herms. The United States Hockey League approved the sale of the team to Muskegon Lumberjacks Hockey Club LLC on Friday, concluding an eight-year ownership stint for BC Hockey LLC owned by Dan Israel, Bob Kaiser and Andy Appleby. Additionally, the Lumberjacks announced on Friday that Head Coach Mike Hamilton and the team have decided to part ways.
“After five years with the Muskegon Lumberjacks, I have decided to step down and pursue other opportunities. I’m grateful for Dan Israel and Bob Kaiser‘s support through the years. I will forever cherish the teams and players that I have coached and look forward to enjoying some time with family.”
Hamilton has been the head coach since the 2018-19 season, which saw many records broken, including most wins and points in a single season, as well as the best start in franchise history. The Grosse Pointe, MI native was named USHL Coach of the Year in 2020-21, the first coach in franchise history to receive the honor. During his tenure, the Lumberjacks made the Eastern Conference Finals each year, with the 2019-20 playoffs being canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Coach Mike Hamilton has the most wins in the history of the Lumberjacks’ franchise, but more importantly he has developed fine young men on and off the ice. I want to thank Coach Hamilton for all his hard work and devotion to the team,” said Bob Kaiser. “I would like to thank all the fans of the Lumberjacks over the past several years, we will miss you!”
Associate Head Coach Parker Burgess has been promoted to Head Coach effective Friday, December 9, 2022. Burgess came to the Lumberjacks after two seasons as the Head Coach of the Janesville Jets of the North American Hockey League. Before his time in the NAHL, Burgess was the Head Coach of Nichols College for five seasons. In addition to the promotion of Parker Burgess, President of Hockey Operations Steve Lowe, General Manager Jimmy McGroarty, and President of Business Operations Andrea Rose have all signed 10-year contracts.
“The USHL believes the Muskegon Lumberjacks are in excellent hands with new Principal Owner Mr. Peter Herms coming on board,” USHL President and Commissioner Bill Robertson said. “I am impressed in my on-going conversations with Peter on his philosophy to run his new club and keen business background as well as his commitment to being involved in the USHL to assist our league. At the same time, the USHL wants to thank Mr. Dan Israel and Mr. Bob Kaiser for their efforts as Managing Partners in Muskegon over the past several years and their tireless efforts and passion to make Muskegon and the USHL better every day. We wish Dan and Bob well as they continue forward with their successful business ventures. We know that Peter has a high-level knowledge of the game as a player and coach with all his experiences and know he will help shape the Lumberjacks and the future success of the organization for years to come.”
The sale of the team comes as the Muskegon Lumberjacks are experiencing record attendance. Since the renovations to Trinity Health Arena in 2018, the Jacks’ front office has been focusing on 30 theme nights per season and providing a social atmosphere for fans of all ages. Lumberjacks’ home games boast premium ticket offerings with all-inclusive food and beverages that have become fan favorites.
The Lumberjacks are home Friday, December 9th against Team USA’s U17 squad for Teddy Bear Toss, before facing conference rival Chicago Steel on Saturday, December 10th for North Pole Night. Tickets are available to be purchased at muskegonlumberjacks.com/