USA Hockey has made a major move by tapping former University of Michigan standout Kevin Porter as the new head coach for the National Team Development Program (NTDP). The Northville native will take the reins of the U18 squad for the 2026-27 season, stepping in for Greg Moore, whose contract was not renewed.

Porter is no stranger to the NTDP—he once wore the captain's "C" for the program before going on to a 12-year professional career that included 249 NHL games. Most recently, he spent two seasons as an assistant coach with the NTDP, proving his ability to develop the next generation of American hockey talent.

"Kevin is a leader by nature and brings a passion to help young players grow on and off the ice," said Scott Monaghan, USA Hockey's assistant executive director for the NTDP. "He is a terrific communicator and teacher, and we're excited to have him as a head coach within our program."

Porter's resume is already decorated with coaching success. This past August, he served as head coach for Team USA at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, leading the squad to its first title since 2004—and only the second in program history. Before rejoining the NTDP, he spent four seasons as an assistant coach for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in the American Hockey League, helping the Penguins reach the Calder Cup playoffs twice.

As a player, Porter's credentials are equally impressive. He won the Hobey Baker Memorial Award as captain at the University of Michigan in 2007-08 and later hoisted the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016. He served as a four-year captain in the AHL with the Rochester Americans and also captained Team USA at the 2006 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, in addition to helping the U.S. earn a silver medal at the 2004 IIHF Under-18 Men's World Championship.

Porter's journey from Michigan standout to NHL champion to NTDP head coach is a testament to his hockey IQ and leadership—qualities that will undoubtedly shape the future stars of American hockey.