Former US National Team Coach Joins Nailers Staff
January 4, 2012 - ECHL (ECHL)
Wheeling Nailers News Release
WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, AA affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Montreal Canadiens, are excited to announce an addition to the organization. The Nailers have hired Cole Bassett as their new assistant coach, effective immediately.
"I would like to thank Jim and Rob Brooks, as well as the entire Wheeling Nailers organization for giving me this opportunity to join their team," Bassett said. "I am grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to working with Clark Donatelli on the bench," he said.
Bassett, 29, began his playing career in 1998, skating with the U.S. National Under-18 Team for parts of two seasons, while spending one year with the U.S. Junior National Team. When it came time to decide on a college, Bassett chose Minnesota State University, where he played four seasons for the Mavericks. His best collegiate season came during his junior year, when he recorded 14 goals, 16 assists, and 30 points in 39 games, while helping to lead Minnesota State into the national tournament. After graduating, Cole turned pro, suiting up in the United Hockey League for parts of two seasons.
"We pride ourselves on our commitment to developing players in a winning culture, and feel its important we have the correct coaching staff to do that," commented Jim Brooks, Nailers co-owner. "Cole brings valuable experience in both playing and coaching, has been highly recommended to us, and should complement Clark well."
When his playing career came to an end, Bassett immediately joined the coaching ranks, going back to where it all started for him, with the U.S. National Development Team. While there, Cole worked under current Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins head coach John Hynes, as well as former Nailers assistant coach and current Gwinnett Gladiators head coach John Wroblewski.
"Cole has a vast experience, coming from the U.S. National Development Program, working under the likes of John Hynes and John Wroblewski," said Nailers head coach Clark Donatelli. "He will be a great addition to the organization, and I look forward to working with him," he said.
Cole Bassett is expected to join the Wheeling Nailers this weekend, when the team is home for three games at WesBanco Arena.
The Nailers will be back in action on Friday night, when they play host to the Cincinnati Cyclones at WesBanco Arena, with opening face-off scheduled for 7:35. For ticket information or to purchase tickets call 304-234-GOAL (4625) or online at shop.wheelingnailers.com. You can now purchase Nailers game tickets on your smartphone by visiting m.wheelingnailers.com
NEXT HOME GAME: Fri. Jan., 6th - 7:35PM
vs.
RONALD McDONALD HOUSE CHARITY NIGHT
Friday January 6th, the Wheeling Nailers will host theCincinnati Cyclones at WesBanco Arena. The Nailers will be wearing special red jerseys to help raise funds for the Morgantown Ronald McDonald House. Following the game there will be a LIVE jersey auction.
FREE YOUTH SKI CAP GIVEAWAY JAN. 7TH
Saturday January 7th, the Wheeling Nailers will host the South Carolina Stingrays at WesBanco Arena. The first 1,000 kids 14 & under through the gates will receive a free Nailers Ski Cap courtesy of the WesBanco
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