MILAN — Mike Keenan, the Stanley Cup winner, was appointed coach of the Italy ice-hockey team on Friday. This gives Keenan a chance at leading the host country at 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics.
Keenan, who is 76 years old in 2026 will last coach China-based Kunlun Red Star at the KHL in 2017.
Keenan stated that he has had many great international experiences, but that this was a new challenge and unique opportunity. “I am excited to participate in a building- and development process leading up to the Olympics. . . . Sometimes miracles do happen every once in a while. Italy is a country passionate about sports. I set high standards because of that.”
Keenan was the coach New York Rangers To the Stanley Cup in 1994, and also won KHL at Metallurg Magitogorsk (2014)
Italy was 11th in the 12-team tournament at the 2006 Turin Games. It also qualified for the host role. This was the previous Olympic participation.
Italy was placed in the Division I worlds next year after finishing last in its respective group at the May world championships.
Greg Ireland, Italy’s former coach, has left to lead Kunlun Red Star.