Michigan State hockey hires Michael Porter as director of player personnel
Michigan State hockey has bolstered its support staff adding Michael Porter to serve as director of player personnel. The Northville, Mich. native was a member of the Spartans’ hockey program from 2000 through 2003.
Porter joins the Michigan State hockey staff after spending the last 7 years as an assistant high school hockey coach at Detroit (Mich.) Catholic Central. During his nine seasons behind the bench, Catholic Central won a total of six MHSAA Division I state titles.
The former Michigan State defenseman’s knowledge extends well beyond the ice. Following his career as a Spartan, Porter graduated with a law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy.
Amid a lengthy career as an attorney, Porter doubled as a legal consultant with the NHL Coaches Association from 2012-16.
Additionally, Porter has recent experience working as a scout in the NHL, and with the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers and BCHL’s Chilliwack Chiefs.
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Many football and basketball fans will link the director of player personnel title to recruiting, prospect evaluations, roster management, among many other roles. According to sources, Porter’s role will be geared more towards budgetary responsibilities, donor and alumni relations, along with name, image, and likeness.
The Michigan State coaching staff, led by head coach Adam Nightingale, will continue to do the heavy lifting as it relates to recruiting and evaluations. Associate head coach Jared DeMichiel, assistant head coach Mike Towns, and director of player development Brad Fast will play a key role in those efforts.
Nightingale and Porter crossed paths during their playing careers in East Lansing. Porter’s final collegiate season was in 2002. Nightingale transferred to Michigan State from Lake Superior State following the 2001 season. Nightingale was forced to sit out the 2002 season due to the NCAA transfer portal rules at the time. However, was still able to participate in many of the program’s activities.
