Littler Resigns

Let the Littler to Omaha rumors fly!

Storm Head Coach to Seek Other Position

KEARNEY – Nebraska’s Tri-City Storm of the United States Hockey League announced today that head coach Bliss Littler has resigned his position with the Storm. Littler leaves his post as head coach of the Storm to pursue other coaching opportunities. Leaving Kearney was not an easy decision for Littler, who has called Kearney, Nebraska home for five years.

“My family and I have enjoyed our five years here and have been treated great by the fans and media,” Littler said. “Everyone involved with the organization from the housing families, to the coaching staff, to the marketing team and ownership have been a pleasure to work with.”

Littler’s successful run with the Storm ends with a record of 164-112-28 for a winning percentage of 68%. He finished 17-17 in the playoffs with a post-season appearance in four out of five seasons. The Storm also won an Anderson Cup Championship in 2003-04 under Littler’s direction. He has helped numerous players move on to receive college scholarships and has coached three Storm players who went on to play in the NHL.
“Most of all I am very thankful for all the very good players I’ve had the opportunity to coach,” said Littler.

Working with the players is something Littler has always enjoyed. FirsTier Event Center general manager, Geof Cook, has seen Littler develop many young hockey players over the years and knows that coaches like Litter don’t come around every day.

“He knows how to win and he’s proven it throughout his coaching career. At this time Bliss is starting a new chapter in his career and we wish him the very best of luck. He will be missed by the fans, players, and staff,” noted Cook.

The search has begun to replace Littler in an off-season that has already seen three coaching changes in the league. Assistant coaches Tom Rudrud and Doug Johnson are ready and able to assume the responsibility of filling out the Storm roster for the 2008-09 season, and will handle the USHL draft taking place on May 14th.