Puempel Enjoying Role Behind the Bench with Essex 73’s

Matt Puempel is settling into life on the other side of the boards.

The 33-year-old former NHL forward has been enjoying his time as an assistant coach with the Essex 73’s since joining the team in late October, his first season away from playing professional hockey.

Essex head coach Tony Piroski says Puempel’s presence has already made a noticeable impact. “Oh, it’s been great,” Piroski said. “I’ve been able to take some practices off. He brings experience with him, and the kids like that. They’ve taken to him right away.”

Piroski added that Puempel’s hockey pedigree — 87 NHL games, AHL and Pro Euro games — carries weight with the players.

“When he’s out there, the kids have a smile on their face,” Piroski said. “Anytime a guy’s played in the NHL, and he’s got a great personality, he's gonna make a real good coach one day, you know, so hope I don't screw him up.”

For Puempel, the opportunity came naturally after returning home and stepping away from playing. “I was just home locally, first year not playing,” Puempel told Powerplay Sports.

“I was fortunate enough these guys were on board with having me come out and help. I’ve really enjoyed my time since.”

Puempel says as a player he has always intrigued by coaching. "Never thought I was ready for it right away. When you’re not playing for the first couple months, you're looking for something to do. Talking with Mike Pailey (73's GM) throughout a little big of the process and I knew pretty much everyone around here locally so it was kind of an easy transition. It’s been fun.”

The Essex native was selected 24th overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft and went on to play for Ottawa, the New York Rangers, and Detroit Red Wings. He also spent time in the AHL and overseas in Germany.

Now, as he settles into coaching at the junior level, Puempel is embracing a new chapter — one that keeps him close to the game and close to home.