Chris Lazary, the former Saginaw Spirit coach who guided the team to the 2024 Memorial Cup championship, has taken on a new role as an associate coach with the University of Michigan hockey program.
His 249‑171‑16‑12 record in the Ontario Hockey League reflects a long track record of building winning cultures and extracting top talent, including 18 NHL draft selections from his Saginaw teams such as Owen Tippett, Ryan McLeod and Michael Misa.
A Vision for the Wolverines
Lazary’s primary mission is to nurture Michigan student‑athletes both on and off the ice, pushing them toward championship contention while embodying the Wolverines’ spirit.
The upcoming 2026‑27 season opens with a home matchup against Bowling Green on October 2 at Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor, and the schedule also features a clash with Western Michigan, which will host Wisconsin on October 24 at Lawson Arena before an outdoor showdown at Waldo Stadium on January 30.
Brandon Naurato, Michigan’s head coach, highlighted Lazary’s reputation as a relentless recruiter and strategist, noting that his work ethic and hockey intellect should elevate the program’s competitiveness.
Lazary himself reflected on his time in Saginaw, expressing gratitude for the relationships forged with players, staff and fans, and emphasized his excitement to represent the university with pride.