In a move that solidifies the foundation of Michigan State hockey for years to come, Head Coach Adam Nightingale has officially signed a five-year contract extension to remain with the Spartans through the 2029–2030 season. The university announced the news in a press release on Wednesday morning, hailing Nightingale’s leadership and the program’s upward trajectory under his guidance.
Nightingale, who took the reins of the storied MSU hockey program in 2022, has quickly revitalized a team that had struggled in previous seasons. Since his arrival, the Spartans have seen marked improvements in both performance and recruiting, culminating in a Big Ten tournament title appearance in 2024 and their deepest NCAA Tournament run in over a decade this past season.
“Adam has brought a culture of discipline, development, and pride back to Michigan State hockey,” said Athletic Director Alan Haller. “He’s not only building a winning program on the ice, but he’s also helping mold outstanding young men off of it. This extension is a reflection of our confidence in his long-term vision.”
Under Nightingale’s leadership, the Spartans have posted back-to-back 20-win seasons, climbed into the top 10 national rankings, and reignited the once-dominant rivalry with the University of Michigan. His recruiting classes have included multiple NHL Draft picks, and the team’s style of fast, physical hockey has drawn sellout crowds to Munn Ice Arena.
For Nightingale, a Michigan native and former Spartan himself, the extension is more than a professional milestone—it’s personal.
“I’m honored and humbled to continue leading this program,” Nightingale said in a statement. “Michigan State means the world to me. We’ve made great strides, but we’re just getting started. Our goal is to bring a national championship back to East Lansing, and I believe we’re building something special.”
Sources close to the program say the new contract includes performance incentives tied to NCAA Tournament success and academic achievements by student-athletes. The deal also boosts salaries for assistant coaches and commits additional resources to facility improvements, including a planned expansion to the Spartans’ training complex.
With the extension signed and a promising roster returning next season, Nightingale and the Spartans appear poised to re-establish themselves as a powerhouse in college hockey.
MSU fans can now breathe easy—Coach Nightingale isn’t going anywhere.
