Mike grew up
playing minor hockey in Stratford. He
played one season with the Stratford Cullitons before being drafted in the 1st
round, 5th overall, to the Windsor Spitfires in the 1992 OHL draft.
In his third season with the Spitfires Mike was selected to in play the CHL All-Star
Game and later that year was drafted in the 3rd round, 65th
overall, by the New York Rangers in the 1995 NHL draft. Mike captained the Spits in his final season
and led his team in defensemen scoring.
Mike’s professional career began in Binghamton, NY with the Rangers AHL farm team. After 3 minor league seasons with the Rangers Mike was signed as a free agent by the Calgary Flames. In 2001 he represented Team Canada in the Spengler Cup and later that season went on to win the Calder Cup, AHL Championship. Mike capped off his AHL career with an appearance at the 2003 AHL All-Star Game.
After suffering a serious knee injury Mike decided to continue his career overseas. The journey began in Russia and continued in Germany, Denmark and Austria. After 9 seasons abroad, and many great experiences, Mike retired from hockey in 2012.
Mike currently resides in Stratford with his wife and 3 children. Since retiring from playing Mike started a gym that includes training for young athletes. He has also coached local minor hockey for 4 years and aspires to further educate himself as a coach and pass on what he’s learned to today’s youth.
“My coaching philosophy is pretty simple… teach the kids values from the game of hockey that they can apply to life! Hard work, accountability, punctuality, perseverance, determination, discipline, team work, dedication.“
Mike was with the Lakers 16-17 Minor PeeWee team as an assistant coach and we are happy to have him back with this group of kids.