Brad Berry, the former head coach of the University of North Dakota, has been appointed as the new head coach of the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms, a move that has been met with enthusiasm by the franchise’s front office.
Berry’s coaching résumé includes a stint that spanned the 2015‑16 through 2024‑25 seasons at North Dakota, during which he guided the Fighting Hawks to a 2016 NCAA championship and amassed four conference regular‑season titles, earning the conference coach of the year honor on four occasions.
His reputation for developing talent and fostering a competitive culture made him a sought‑after candidate, and the Phantoms’ management believes his experience will translate into immediate on‑ice success for the young club.
The appointment comes at a time when the Phantoms are looking to rebuild after a transitional period, and Berry’s arrival signals a clear intent to pursue a deeper playoff run.
European Transfers
In a separate development, forward Peter Cehlarik has agreed to a two‑year contract with the Växjö Lakers of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). The 27‑year‑old, who posted 24 points in 45 SHL games last season, brings a blend of NHL experience and offensive versatility to the Swedish side.
Cehlarik’s move follows a stint in which he tallied a career‑high 12 goals during the 2018‑19 NHL season with the Boston Bruins, a period that also saw him notch 24 points in 45 SHL games, underscoring his adaptability across leagues.
Joining Cehlarik on the international front, Austin Wagner has signed a one‑year deal with the Frankfurt Lions of Germany’s Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL). Wagner, who has appeared in 178 NHL games and reached a personal best of 12 goals in 2018‑19, will look to contribute depth scoring to the Lions’ roster.
Both European signings highlight a trend of North American players seeking competitive environments abroad, a pathway that can aid both personal growth and the global reach of the sport.