DEARBORN, Mich. – The University of Michigan-Dearborn is excited to announce the hiring of Ken McMullen as the new women's ice hockey head coach.

McMullen becomes the second coach in program history after serving as an assistant coach the previous three seasons, including the inaugural season that saw the Wolverines finish with a record of 21-2-0.  He picked up his first career win as head coach on October 9th, defeating UM-Ann Arbor in the 2021-22 home-opener by a score of 3-0. 

McMullen showed his excitement for what this upcoming season has in store for his team by stating, "Overall, I am looking forward to building off the success from our first season. My goals for this season are to be competitive, consistent and to focus on structure, so that our student-athletes will have the most positive experience possible and continue to build the foundations for this program to evolve into greatness!"

Interim Athletics Director Bryan Earl said, "We are excited for Ken to step into the head coaching role.  With Ken and the entire women's ice hockey coaching staff in place, we know the women's ice hockey team will succeed in the classroom, in competition, and in community."

McMullen brings plenty of experience and knowledge of the game, starting at a young age and making his way up to the Junior A circuit. Ken also has over 25 years of coaching experience across different levels and age groups, with the last seven years spent in the Trenton Hockey Association. He also started the Downriver United girl's high school team, the first in the area, placing second in the 19U MAHA State Tournament with a collection of girls between the ages of 14-16. 

Growing up in Riverview, Mich., McMullen stated, "I really enjoy staying active and giving back to the sport and community that I love." 

Away from the rink, he holds a Michigan Mechanical license and Agriculture license, and has been in business in those fields in the local downriver area since 1994.

 He currently resides in New Boston, Mich., with his wife of 24 years, Katherine, his daughter Marissa, 19, a UM-Dearborn student studying business, and his youngest daughter, Mia, 16, a student at New Boston Huron High School, who hopes to pursue a career in medicine. 

Coach McMullen and the Wolverines will compete in the CCWHA Division 1 against the likes of Adrian College, Michigan State, and UM-Ann Arbor in the 2021-22 season, looking to replicate the success they found in year one.