Former Calgary Hitmen Coach Picked to Lead Tri City Americans

The man who led Calgary to the Memorial Cup, and Eastern Conference finals of the WHL will take over the reins in Tri-Cities.

Tuesday the Tri-City Americans named Mike Williamson as the new Head Coach, replacing Jim Hiller.

Williamson has compiled the 3rd. best winning percentage in the entire WHL among active coaches in 13 years with Portland and Calgary.

Americans General Manager Bob Tory, who's known Williamson since he was a 17-year old WHL player, says he will bring "a great deal of experience and a passion to our hockey club."

After leaving Portland in 2007 following 7 seasons,  he spent five years in Calgary where he took the Hitmen to the Memorial Cup semi-finals, and the Eastern Conference finals.   His all time record is 427 wins, 374 losses, not counting overtime ties.

Williamson said he's looking forward to getting settled in the Tri-Cities and getting to work.  Williamson is pictured below addressing media following the announcement.