Manchester Storm are delighted to confirm the vastly experienced Mike Flanagan as Head Coach, joining from EK Zell am See of the AlpsHL.

The 55-year-old Canadian will be revisiting the UK after nearly 30 years. The former defenceman represented Slough Jets in the BHL on 35 occasions, before joining Telford Tigers in the EPIHL for the 1996-97 season.

A transition into coaching followed shortly after his playing days were over, as Flanagan initially learnt his trade behind the bench with Grand Rapids Owls (CSHL) before moving into the NAHL with St. Louis Bandits. By 2010, Flanagan’s consistency and hardworking approach was acknowledged by Norfolk Admirals who appointed him assistant coach to their AHL franchise.

The following season, Flanagan would be apart of a Calder Cup winning Admirals group. This near instant success had European sides battling for his attention. Valpellice of Italy would provide Flanagan with his first professional opportunity on the continent, in 2012.

The silverware would continue to follow Flanagan who won both the Italian Cup and Coach of the Year, in his debut campaign. Our new Head Coach would stay in Italy until 2015 before returning to North America, to assist Gwinnett Gladiators and Atlanta Gladiators. The role of assistance would continue through to 2020, as Flanagan served on the benches of Nürnberg Ice Tigers and Schwenninger Wild Wings of Germany top-tier (DEL).

After a handful of years in the assistant capacity, Flanagan took the reins at EHC Lustenau (AlpsHL) in 2020. The multi-national division allows for several silverware winning opportunities and his side would take advantage of the Austria2 championship.

Flanagan would remain in the AlpsHL with EK Zell am See until now.

The Manchester Storm organisation are delighted to begin a new chapter with Mike Flanagan at the helm!