Derek Damon Named New Head Coach of Iowa Heartlanders

Former NHL Player and Assistant Coach Takes the Helm

The Iowa Heartlanders, an ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) team, officially announced on Tuesday that Derek Damon will take over as its new head coach.

A Familiar Face Returns

Damon, a former University of Maine star and NHL player, returns to the ECHL after playing in Germany and coaching in the Missouri Mavericks organization. He played with the Florida Panthers and Columbus Blue Jackets during his NHL career.

Damon became an assistant coach with the Heartlanders in 2022 and played a key role in their success. He now assumes the head coaching reins, replacing Anthony Noreen, who was relieved of his duties last week.