Portland Winterhawks coach steps down after 13 years

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The Portland Winterhawks announced a pair of big organizational moves on Monday.

Head coach Mike Johnston stepped down from his position after 13 years at the helm and will focus on his roles as the Winterhawks Team President and General Manager, signing a four-year extension for both positions. Johnston plans to “increase his focus on the development aspects of Winterhawks players, and prospects,” the organization said.

Longtime assistant Kyle Gustafson will take over as Portland’s sixth head coach in franchise history.

Johnston was the Winterhawks head coach for 13 seasons and became the 11th coach in Western Hockey League history to surpass 500 wins. He led the team to five WHL Finals appearances, including last season, and a championship in 2013.

“At this time I felt it was important to turn my focus to the overall program which includes assembling a championship team along with preparing our players for professional hockey and life after hockey,” Johnston said. “I will monitor the development plan for each individual and also the execution of that plan. We strive to be the best development program in North America and that will continue to be our goal. I am very confident that Kyle will make a smooth transition into the head coaching role. He is one of the brighter young minds in the game.”

Gustafson, a Portland native, will take over after serving as a Winterhawks assistant coach for two decades.

“It is an honor and a privilege to be named head coach of the Portland Winterhawks,” Gustafson said. “Growing up here in Portland and having worked for this organization for many years, I understand the responsibility that comes along with this position, and I look forward to the challenge. I’m excited for the opportunity to continue coaching players I have built relationships with as well as the new players arriving this fall. Most importantly, I’d like to thank Mike Johnston, Michael Kramer, Kerry Preete, and the Winterhawks Sports Group for this tremendous opportunity.”

“We are very fortunate to have two individuals of the quality, character and capabilities of Mike Johnston and Kyle Gustafson to lead our team,” Winterhawks Governor and Managing Partner Michael Kramer added. “Over the past 13 years, Mike and Kyle have built one the most successful programs together in amateur hockey. This program has always been based on the development of our players on and off the ice, while providing a team that our fans can get excited about supporting and participate with us as we pursue additional championships. I am very excited about what the future brings for the Portland Winterhawks. It is our expectation that in their new roles, Mike and Kyle will continue to build on all their past success and take the organization to new heights.”

Portland opens its season on Sept. 20 against the Kamloops Blazers before hosting the Victoria Royals on Oct. 4 for their home opener.

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