Manchester Storm are proud to announce the appointment of former captain Cameron Critchlow as the club’s new Head Coach for the upcoming 2025/26 Elite Ice Hockey League season.

This new chapter marks a significant transition for Critchlow, a cornerstone of the Storm’s roster since arriving in 2019. A true leader on and off the ice, he was named Assistant Captain in his first season before taking on the role of Captain ahead of the 2022/23 campaign—a position he held with pride before hanging up the skates at the end of the 24/25 season.

Critchlow’s leadership qualities and deep understanding of the club’s culture made him a natural choice for the role. Speaking on his appointment, he said:

“I’m honoured to take on the position of Head Coach for Manchester Storm. This organisation has been my home for several years, and I’m committed to building upon our strong foundation and striving for excellence on and off the ice.”

As the club enters this exciting new era, we also extend heartfelt gratitude to club legend Mike Morin. His selfless commitment during a difficult period was nothing short of extraordinary. When the Storm needed him most, Mike put his business and personal life on hold to answer the call. His calm leadership, wealth of experience, and deep-rooted passion for the club were instrumental in steadying the ship.

Mike’s influence extended well beyond the bench—he helped reinforce the culture, standards, and spirit that define Manchester Storm. While his recent stint as Head Coach was always understood to be a temporary arrangement due to his external commitments, the impact he made during that time was lasting. We are incredibly thankful for his service and are delighted he will return to his previous role as Assistant Coach for the 2025/26 season.

We’re also excited about the continued partnership between Mike and Cameron. Having worked closely together for years, their mutual understanding of the club’s goals and values will be vital to our success moving forward.

General Manager Ryan Finnerty expressed confidence in the club’s new direction:

“Critch has been a key part of our leadership group for a long time. I’ve worked closely with him during my coaching days and even more so alongside Ginner, so I’ve seen first-hand the qualities that make him a strong leader. I really value the progression from player to coach—it’s a path many successful coaches in this league have taken. With the experience that Mikey and I bring, we’ll be there to support his transition, but I have complete confidence in Critch’s ability to lead the club forward after a challenging season.

We’re also incredibly grateful to Mike Morin for stepping up when we needed him most. Having him return to support Critch gives us a wealth of experience behind the bench, and we’re confident heading into the 2025/26 season.”

The entire Manchester Storm community now looks forward to this new chapter under Critchlow’s leadership, with Morin by his side. Further announcements regarding the 2025/26 player roster will follow in due course. Stay tuned – and get ready for an exciting season ahead under new leadership.

• Season tickets are available here: https://bit.ly/25-26-SeasonTickets
• Stay up to date with the latest news this off season with the Manchester Storm WhatsApp Channel: https://bit.ly/McrStormWhatsappChannel

Words by: Callum Schora