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Nailers Hires Former WVU Coach as Assistant

August 9, 2012 - ECHL (ECHL) Wheeling Nailers

Sonnefeld joins the Nailers after serving as the head coach at West Virginia University from 2010-12. Sonnefeld made an immediate impact behind the Mountaineers' bench, as he led them to 19 wins during the 2010-11 season, earning himself CHMA Coach of the Year Honors. One year later, WVU posted a 26-victory campaign, advancing to the Division 1 ACHA National Tournament's second round.

"I'd like to thank Don Rigby, Tim Roberts, Clark Donatelli, and the Pittsburgh Penguins for giving me the opportunity to join this great organization," said Sonnefeld. "I look forward to working with Clark to develop players and put a championship caliber team on the ice," he said.

The State of West Virginia has always been home for Sonnefeld, as he was born and raised in Wheeling. He began his hockey path in the Wheeling Amateur Hockey Association (WAHA), before attending Wheeling Park High School, and ultimately playing junior hockey for the Pittsburgh Junior Penguins. He then went on to return to Wheeling Park, where he coached the school to two West Virginia State Championships. Zach also coached the Wheeling Amateur Nailers.

"As a local product, I've watched the organization develop for many years, and I'm honored to now be a part of carrying on the tradition of professional hockey in the Ohio Valley," Sonnefeld said.

Sonnefeld, who assisted Clark Donatelli for a few weeks during the West Virginia University school breaks, will assume his role, working aside Donatelli, when the Nailers begin their preseason schedule on October 5th at Cincinnati, before making his regular season debut as the team's assistant coach on October 13th, again at Cincinnati.

"Zach is very passionate about the game of hockey," said Nailers head Coach Clark Doantelli. " I am very excited to bring him aboard our staff".

The Nailers will begin the regular season on October 13th in Cincinnati, in the first of four straight road games, before playing their home opener on October 26th against the Reading Royals. Nailers 2012-13 Ticket Packages are on sale now. Packages start at just $7.50 per game. Call 304-234-GOAL or wheelingnailers.com for more information.

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