Buffalo, N.Y. (WGR Sports Radio 550) – The Buffalo Sabres have found Seth Appert’s replacement as the head coach of the Rochester Americans.
Michael Leone becomes the 34th head coach in Amerks history after serving as head coach with the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) over the last two seasons.
While coaching the Gamblers, Leone helped the team to a 66-41-10-7 combined record. He has also been an assistant coach with the U.S. National Team Development Program from 2019 until 2022.
Leone’s playing experience came with Western Michigan University, and then four years in the ECHL with the Kalamazoo Wings and Toledo Walleye.
The 36-year-old takes over behind the Amerks' bench after Appert was promoted to Lindy Ruff's staff with the Sabres as an assistant coach.
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"I am pleased to welcome Mike Leone as the head coach of the Rochester Americans," said Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams in a team statement. "The Amerks head coach plays a crucial role in the overall success and growth of our organization, and after a rigorous interview process, it became clear that Mike was the right individual for the job. His development mindset and professional versatility over the course of his career were just some of the many qualities that stood out as we searched for an individual to continue focusing on combining both winning and development in Rochester."
"I am thrilled to welcome Mike to our organization and look forward to working with him as we continue to build a foundation of success in Rochester," said Amerks general manager Jason Karmanos. "Throughout the interview process, Mike differentiated himself from other candidates with his development background, inherent feel for the game, and growth mindset. I am confident in Mike’s leadership and ability to guide our players both on and off the ice, while continuing a culture in which players are proud to wear the Amerks sweater."
Leone will be introduced as the next coach of the Amerks on Monday.
"I’m extremely grateful and humbled to be a part of the Buffalo Sabres organization as the next head coach of the Rochester Americans," said Leone in a statement. "I want to thank Kevyn Adams and Jason Karmanos for giving me the opportunity to lead the organization and believing in me. I look forward to meeting everyone in the organization and helping our prospects continue to grow and develop on and off the ice."
Both assistant coaches under Appert, Nathan Paetsch and Vinny Prospal, were also in consideration for the job. There's no word yet on if they will remain on Leone's staff.
