Wisconsin's men's hockey program is set to welcome a new face on the bench as Nick Peruzzi was officially hired as an assistant coach, filling the vacancy left by Nick Oliver, who accepted a head‑coaching position at St. Cloud State.
A Coach With a Proven Track Record
Peruzzi arrives after five seasons of collegiate coaching and four years spent in junior hockey, where he most recently helped the University of Connecticut reach the NCAA Tournament in back‑to‑back seasons. His résumé also includes stints at Northern Michigan University, the USHL's Lincoln and Youngstown franchises, and a reputation for shaping player development.
Mike Hastings, the Badgers' head coach, praised Peruzzi's strategic mind and his ability to connect with athletes, noting that the new assistant will play a key role in elevating the team's competitive edge.
Looking Ahead to a Fresh Era
The addition of Peruzzi signals a deliberate effort by Wisconsin to blend seasoned insight with fresh perspectives. As the program prepares for the upcoming season, the coaching staff hopes to translate this experience into stronger performances on the ice and continued growth for the student‑athletes.