ECHL Legend, 3Ice Star, Head Coach?

• By Jeffery Fink
• The Allen Americans made a splash in the Texas hockey community after parting ways with previous head coach Steve Martinson. The move shook the fan base and left them wondering, “Who could possibly fill the shoes of Marty?” Enter ECHL and Allen Americans legend, Chad Costello.

Allen Americans name former player Chad Costello as their head coach moving into the ’22-’23 ECHL season. (Photo-David Dudich)

Costello has one of the most decorated ECHL careers and very well may be the most prolific ECHL player of all time. A four-time first-team All-Star, a three-time ECHL MVP, a two-time Kelly Cup Champion, and Kelly Cup MVP, Costello’s pedigree speaks for itself. On May 18th of this year, Costello announced his retirement from playing as well as being named the new head coach of the Allen Americans. Well, Chad is almost retired.

Chad Costello will take part in the newly formed 3Ice league before stepping behind the bench in Allen come October (Photo-Nolan Motis)

Costello will be taking part in the newly formed 3Ice hockey league beginning in June. The 3Ice hockey league will bring one of if not the most electric part of the sport to a full league. Three on three hockey. Costello was selected by NHL Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier and will be fully involved with the league.

“It will not affect my new job with the Americans at all. The season starts next month in Vegas, and ends way before our season begins.”

-ALLEN AMERICANS HEAD COACH AND 3ICE SKATER CHAD COSTELLO

Seeing Costello involved in 3Ice is exciting, and hopefully, a way to go out of the game on top as a player. What is even more exciting is seeing what Costello can do for the Allen Americans as he enters a new step in his career as a head coach and general manager. The Americans enter their 14th season of professional hockey in October and are seeking their fifth championship.

Stay tuned for updates regarding Costello and the Americans as we shift into offseason mode here at The Morning Skate. The ECHL isn’t like your usual NHL or even AHL affiliate. ECHL franchises tend to build from the ground up on most occasions allowing for young and veteran skaters alike an opportunity to showcase their talents for the opportunity to move up to the AHL and on some special occasions the NHL.