RIO RANCHO, N.M. - The New Mexico Goatheads announced today that Zack Stortini has been named the first head coach in franchise history ahead of the organization’s inaugural 2026–27 season.
Stortini brings more than a decade of professional hockey experience as both a player and coach to New Mexico. Most recently, he served as an assistant coach with the Tucson Roadrunners of the American Hockey League following three seasons behind the bench with the Ontario Hockey League’s Sudbury Wolves.
“Zack brings a combination of leadership, passion, and hockey knowledge that immediately stood out throughout this process,” said Goatheads General Manager, Jared Johnson. “He has experience at every level of the game, understands how to build relationships with players, and shares the vision we have for what hockey in New Mexico can become. We’re excited to have him lead our team into its first season.”
Prior to coaching, Stortini played 14 professional seasons, including 257 National Hockey League games with the Edmonton Oilers and Nashville Predators. Known for his competitiveness and leadership throughout his playing career, he also won two American Hockey League Calder Cup championships, including a title with the Charlotte Checkers in 2019.
Beyond the rink, Stortini has also been recognized for his impact in the community. During his time in Charlotte, he was named the team’s IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year for his charitable and community involvement efforts.
“I am grateful to the organization for the opportunity to be the first head coach of the Goatheads and am really looking forward to leading the new ECHL club,” said Stortini. 'I’d like to thank REV Entertainment, Jared Johnson, and Mike Battaglia for their trust in me, as well as extend a big thank you to the whole Goatheads organization and the Rio Rancho community. I am excited to get started this season.”
The New Mexico Goatheads are a proud member of the ECHL and will begin play during the 2026–27 season at the Rio Rancho Events Center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. The Goatheads are affiliated with the Colorado Avalanche and Colorado Eagles.