Power head coach Mitchell takes job in NAHL

John Mitchell is the latest NA3HL coach to take a job in the NAHL.

The Milwaukee Power of the NA3HL are pleased to announce that Head Coach John Mitchell has been hired as an associate head coach of the St. Cloud Norsemen of the North American Hockey League (NAHL).

Mitchell coached the Power to its most successful season in the 2022-23 season. The Power had the most wins in franchise history, 31 (31-13-2-1 in third place in the Central Division) qualifying for the Fraser Cup playoffs.

Mitchell will join Norsemen head coach Corey Millen on the bench as the Norsemen look to make a return trip to the Robertson Cup this season and brings extensive on and off ice experience to the organization. 

“This decision has definitely been bittersweet. Over the course of these seemingly short, but potent three years with the Power, I’ve learned so much.  I want to thank our owners for being so supportive and professional during this transition period and to the Power staff for countless hours of team strategy and player personnel discussion. To the Power players, who made the decision the hardest…this opportunity presents itself because of the efforts and success you’ve cultured here in West Bend. You understand the potential this club has for the season, go earn it!  The future is bright here in West Bend,” said Mitchell.

“John Mitchell’s journey from the Milwaukee Power to the NAHL is a testament to his dedication and the bright future that lies ahead for us and him.  “We’re proud to have played a part in his development and eagerly anticipate the heights he’ll reach on the broader stage of the NAHL,” said Power Business Director Kris Marion.

“I am honored to have worked alongside coach Mitchell for the past 5 years in both the high school and junior ranks.  Everywhere John goes he has brought success and smiles.  This is a great next step in his journey, and we wish him the best of luck.  We will miss him as a coach and friend here in West Bend,” said Matt Roadhouse, Power Director of Player Personnel.

A native of Neenah, Wisconsin, Mitchell played two seasons in the USHL before heading to the University of Wisconsin to become a Badger where he was a NCAA National Champion and NCAA runner-up.

After leaving Wisconsin, he signed an NHL contract with the Anaheim Ducks, and played in over 200 games as a professional. Following his playing career, John moved on to coaching, first with Team Wisconsin in 2015, then to University School of Milwaukee in 2018, moving on the Power as an assistant for the 2021-22 season, then head coach in the 2022-23 season.