PWHL Detroit has named its first addition to the coaching staff, naming Molly Engstrom as an assistant on head coach Josh Sciba's staff.
PWHL Detroit has its first assistant coach, as the league announced on Friday that Molly Engstrom has been added to Josh Sciba's coaching staff.
“I am thrilled to be joining PWHL Detroit and want to thank Manon and the team for their support and for believing in me and trusting me to take on this challenge and opportunity,” said Engstrom via league release. “The PWHL’s momentum has been incredible for the sport of women’s hockey and I’m fortunate to help be a part of its continued growth at this level. I can't wait to hit the ice with the team for our inaugural season.”
Engstrom, a two-time U.S. Olympian who earned a silver medal with Team USA at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and bronze in 2006, has spent the past four seasons as head coach of the University of Maine women’s ice hockey program and was a runner-up for Hockey East Coach of the Year in her first season.
“Molly’s experience as a coach and as a former player who competed at the highest level is exciting to add to our group, as someone who understands the dynamics of successful teams on and off the ice,” said Manon Rhéaume, PWHL Detroit General Manager via league release. “She aligns with the vision and core values we are building within the organization and will be relatable for our players alongside the important support she provides Head Coach Josh Sciba.”
In addition to Maine, Engstrom has held coaching positions at St. Cloud State and Team USA at the U22 level, and has prior experience with Sciba as an assistant coach for select games during the 2022 Rivalry Series between Canada and the United States.