Grizzlies announce coaching change

Tyler Veen is the new Head Coach of the Rochester Grizzlies in the NA3HL.

The Rochester Grizzlies, proud members of the North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL), are happy to announce that former assistant coach Tyler Veen has been appointed as the new Head Coach for the Grizzlies. He will become the 3rd Head Coach in Franchise History. 

Veen replaces Chris Ratzloff, who was recently named as the new Head Coach of the Chippewa Steel in the NAHL.

"I am extremely excited and grateful for this new opportunity and challenge ahead," stated Veen. "Being able to continue to be a part of this organization that gave me my start means a lot to me. I know I will have some big shoes to fill, but I am confident with how much I have learned from so many great people around me that we can continue to build this organization. I’d like to personally thank the owners for believing in me and, most importantly, Chris for showing me how to be a professional every day."

Veen joined the Bruins/Grizzlies organization as a scout during the 2019 season, and since then, Veen has been promoted to the role of the Grizzlies Assistant Coach before the 2021-22 season. Veen attended and graduated from the University of North Dakota in 2021, majoring in Business Management and obtaining a Minor in Coaching.

The Harwood, ND, native played the sport of hockey from a young age through high school. Veen has also coached in the East Grand Forks Youth Program and helped the high school during fall camps.

"I am beyond appreciative of what "Ratz" has done for me, shown me, and given me in every aspect of hockey and life," mentioned Veen. "I am looking forward to continuing to build off of what Casey and Chris have done before me! Roll Grizz!"

Ratzloff led the Grizzlies to three Central Division Titles, two Fraser Cup Finals, and the Franchise's first Fraser Cup Championship during the 2021-22 Season. Ratzloff has also been honored as the NA3HL Coach of the Year during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 Seasons.