NOHA APPOINTS MITCHELL RUSSELL AS HEAD COACH OF U14 TEAM NOHA

NORTH BAY, ON Nov 4th, 2026 – The Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mitchell Russell as Head Coach of U14 Team NOHA.

Russell brings an impressive hockey background, with experience as both a player and development coach at the professional level. A former first-round OHL draft pick of the Owen Sound Attack, Mitchell went on to sign a three-year NHL contract with the San Jose Sharks. Throughout his playing career, he competed with the San Jose Barracuda and Wichita Thunder, while also serving as an Assistant Captain with the North Bay Battalion.

His experience across the OHL, AHL and professional hockey environments has given him a strong understanding of the game, player development, leadership and what it takes to build a successful team. He brings valuable insight into team culture, accountability, communication and the importance of creating a positive, high-performance environment.

As Head Coach, Russell is committed to building a culture that extends beyond the game itself. His philosophy centres on developing good teammates and good people first, while helping players grow both on and off the ice.

“Developing players is about more than what they can accomplish on the ice. It's about teaching them how to be good teammates, demonstrate accountability, communicate and represent themselves and their communities with pride.”

The NOHA is excited to welcome Mitchell Russell to the U14 Team NOHA coaching staff and looks forward to the leadership, experience and vision he will bring to the program.

Please join us in welcoming Mitchell Russell as Head Coach of U14 Team NOHA!

Additional coaching staff appointments will be announced shortly.