OMAHA, NE – The Omaha Lancers are proud to announce the hiring of Ron Fogarty as the team's new head coach. A highly respected hockey coach with a championship pedigree, Fogarty brings a wealth of experience and proven track record of success to the Lancers.
Fogarty joins the organization following his tenure as a professional coach in the Austrian League and NCAA, where he served as head coach for a combined 17 seasons. As a head coach of Division III Adrian college from 2007-2014 and Division I Princeton from 2014-2024, he compiled an impressive 257-197-32 record, winning six league titles and six tournament championships.
Fogarty made an immediate impact at Adrian, leading the team to league and tournament championships in its inaugural season and transforming the program into a national powerhouse with multiple NCAA tournament appearances. At Princeton, he orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, taking a last-place team and guiding them to the 2018 ECAC Championship in just four seasons. Under his leadership, 24 undrafted players attended NHL camps, four went to play in the NHL. His expertise in building championship-caliber teams and developing talent will be instrumental as the Lancers aim to reclaim their winning tradition.
"Ron Fogarty is the steady, experienced leader we need to guide the Lancers back to championship contention," Lancers owner Mike Picozzi said. "Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to build winning programs, foster player development, and establish a culture of success. His deep understanding of the game—both on and off the bench—will be invaluable in shaping a competitive and sustainable team."
Fogarty expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Lancers. "I am honored to be part of the Omaha Lancers organization and excited to work with our players, engage with our passionate fans, and immerse myself in the community," Fogarty said. "I look forward to collaborating with NHL and NCAA teams while mentoring and developing future hockey talent."
Under Coach Fogarty's leadership, the Omaha Lancers are poised for a promising future, with a renewed commitment to player development, championship aspirations, and sustained excellence.
Interim head coach Scott Pietruszka will remain with the Lancers as an assistant coach for the remainder of the season, ensuring continuity within the coaching staff. "I am very excited at having Coach Fogarty join the Omaha Lancers. His resume and experience training and developing caliber players speaks for itself. The future in Omaha is extremely bright." Pietruszka said.
"On behalf of the Lancers organization, I want to personally thank Scott Pietruszka for stepping in as interim head coach during an incredibly critical time and providing much-needed stability to our team. Without his tireless and selfless dedication, we would not be in our current position of excitement for the success to come." Picozzi said, "I am pleased to announce that Scott will not only assist Ron on the bench as Assistant Coach but will also immediately take on the role of Director of Operations, further strengthening the Lancers' engagement in Omaha."
About the Omaha Lancers
The Omaha Lancers are a proud member of the United States Hockey League (USHL), dedicated to developing elite hockey talent and competing at the highest level of junior hockey. With a rich history of success, the Lancers continue to strive for excellence on and off the ice.
For media inquiries, please contact: Frank Zawwrazky Omaha Lancers Media Relations Phone: (402) 344-7825 Email: fzawrazky@lancers.com
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