NHL Award Winner Jason McCrimmon Named Head Coach of the Prague Guardians

Jason McCrimmon Named Head Coach of the Prague Guardians in the EUCHL

Prague, Czech Republic — The Prague Guardians of the European Union College Hockey League (EUCHL) have announced that Jason McCrimmon will take over as the team’s new head coach, a major addition for the club’s competitive and developmental ambitions in European college hockey.

McCrimmon, a respected coach and hockey operations leader from Detroit, Michigan, brings more than a decade of coaching and scouting experience from North America to one of Europe’s emerging collegiate hockey programs. He previously served as Director of Hockey Operations for the Prague Guardians, where he played an instrumental role in shaping the club’s vision and culture ahead of the 2026 EUCHL campaign. �

pragueguardians.com

A Leader with Diverse Hockey Roots

Before arriving in Prague, McCrimmon built a multifaceted hockey résumé that spans playing, coaching, community engagement, and youth development. The 42-year-old former defenseman played collegiate and professional hockey in multiple leagues and later transitioned to coaching and hockey development with strong connections to the NHL and numerous professional leagues. �

Elite Prospects

In the United States, he gained recognition not only as a coach but as a community builder. McCrimmon cofounded the Detroit Ice Dreams Youth Hockey Association, a nonprofit focused on increasing access to the sport for underserved communities, and has been honored with the NHL's 2023 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award for his impact off the ice. �

USA Hockey

He also brings leadership experience from junior hockey ranks, including roles as a coach and owner with junior hockey clubs such as the Motor City Gamblers. �

media.nhl.com

What This Means for the Guardians

The appointment of McCrimmon as head coach marks a significant step in the Prague Guardians’ growth. Under his leadership, the Guardians look to build a system that blends high-level competition with player development and education — reinforcing Prague’s appeal as a destination for student-athletes seeking both degree pathways and elite hockey. Partnerships such as the club’s academic collaboration with the University of Finance and Administration (VSFS) in Prague underscore this integrated model. �

pragueguardians.com

In his new role, McCrimmon is expected to put a strong emphasis on:

Player development and pathway planning

Tactical systems aligned with European and North American styles of play

Recruitment of elite prospects committed to both hockey and academics

Looking Ahead

As the EUCHL continues to expand the footprint of collegiate hockey across Europe, McCrimmon’s appointment signals the Prague Guardians’ intent to compete at the highest level while offering student-athletes a rewarding international experience. Fans, recruits, and alumni will be watching closely as the team prepares for the upcoming season under his direction.

For more updates on McCrimmon’s coaching staff and the Guardians’ 2026 schedule, visit the official Prague Guardians website or follow their social channels.