The Alaska Nanooks men’s hockey program has officially announced the hiring of Matt Curley as their new associate head coach, bringing aboard a seasoned leader with a diverse coaching resume at the collegiate, junior, and international levels.
Curley joins the Nanooks after spending the past four seasons as head coach and general manager of the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers, where he was widely credited for developing high-level talent and building a strong culture. His move back to Alaska marks a return to familiar territory, having previously served as head coach at the University of Alaska Anchorage from 2018–2021.
“Matt brings a wealth of experience—from winning international medals with USA Hockey, to coaching in the USHL, NCAA, and Europe,” said Nanooks head coach Erik Largen. “He’s a proven leader who’s developed players at every level… Even more important than his resume is the kind of person he is. Matt is an unbelievable person, hardworking, and deeply committed to mentoring young men both on and off the ice.”
ALSO SEE: Tennessee State Delays Historic HBCU Men’s Hockey Launch to 2026–27
Curley’s coaching journey includes two seasons as an assistant coach at Bentley University (2013–2015) and a successful three-year stint as head coach of RB Hockey Juniors in Austria from 2015 to 2018. In addition, he has worked extensively with USA Hockey’s national teams, serving as an assistant coach at the U17 and U18 levels across six international seasons between 2010 and 2023.
A native of Madrid, New York, Curley played college hockey at Clarkson University from 2003 to 2007, helping the team win the 2006–07 ECAC Tournament before playing professionally in the SPHL, IHL, and ECHL.
“I couldn’t be happier to be coming back to the state of Alaska, a place that has always felt like home to me,” said Curley. “It is a privilege to be part of a program that is so strongly supported by the community and University. I’m looking forward to contributing toward the continued growth of Nanooks hockey.”
As the Nanooks look to build on their recent momentum and compete at a high level in the NCAA landscape, the addition of a coach with deep ties to Alaska and proven success across multiple levels represents a major step forward.
Who is the new associate head coach of the Alaska Nanooks hockey team?
Matt Curley has been named associate head coach of the Alaska Nanooks men’s hockey team, joining ahead of the 2025–26 season.
What is Matt Curley’s coaching background?
Curley previously served as head coach of the Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL), University of Alaska Anchorage, and RB Hockey Juniors in Austria. He has also worked with USA Hockey and Bentley University.
When did Matt Curley previously coach in Alaska?
Curley was head coach at the University of Alaska Anchorage from 2018 to 2021.
What is Matt Curley’s playing background?
He played four seasons at Clarkson University (2003–2007), winning the ECAC Tournament in 2007, and had a two-year pro career in the SPHL, IHL, and ECHL.
ALSO SEE: Where Will the 2028 World Cup of Hockey Be Held? Top European Venues in Contention
