Islanders Alumni Update: Bill Muckalt Looks to Help Lead Michigan to NCAA Title

Muckalt serves as the associate head coach at the University of Michigan

The Islanders Alumni network is as strong as can be. At most home games at UBS Arena, alumni are ever-present and integrate with fans better than any other NHL team. 

Many of the former Isles are from the Stanley Cup era, however a new generation of younger alumni are emerging professionally both within and outside of the hockey realm.  

Today we chat with Bill Muckalt, who skated for the Islanders for parts of two seasons from 1999 to 2001. Muckalt was traded to the Islanders with Dave Scatchard and Kevin Weekes for goalie Felix Potvin and draft picks.

Currently, Muckalt is in his fourth season as associate head coach at the University of Michigan. As two-time national champion as a player (1994-1995 through 1997-1998), Muckalt scored 105 goals and 226 total points. 

The Wolverines face Colgate University Friday in Allentown, P.A. in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The Hockey News caught up with Coach Muckalt to reminisce about his days in blue and orange, and a quick look at what he does as associate head coach at Michigan.

After being traded to the Islanders, what were your first memories? I really enjoyed our assistant coach Lorne Henning. Had great stories and had a tremendous amount of respect for what he did and a player and being part of the dynasty. 

Who within the Isles organization were you most impacted by during your short time in New York? I had opportunities to spend time with Mike Bossy. He was always so humble. Playing rounds of golf with Bob Nystrom and Clark Gillies was really fun as I grew up watching those guys and collecting their hockey cards as a kid.

Who is the best Islander player you played with? Kenny Jonsson and Mariusz Czerkawski were our best two players and both were extremely talented.

What's you favorite spot in New York? Peter Lugers Steakhouse and Kitchen Kabaret Deli.

As assistant coach of the Michigan Wolverines, what is your primary job/focus? Recruiting and player development are two of my main areas of focus. I have worked with both special teams and forwards, and currently I am running our D corps.

What is your favorite part of coaching a college team with constant NHL talent? My favorite part is helping young men grow and get better. Helping them reach their goals NHL and maturing off the ice.

Recently, several coaches have gone from college to the NHL successfully. Do you think about one day coaching at the NHL level? I have had some opportunities in the past and it’s something that is very intriguing. Obviously, it’s the best league with the best players in the world. However, right now my main focus is to have a strong finish with our team and try to win an NCAA championship.