Justin Pereira accepts Head Coaching job of Rockland Nationals Jr. A

Saginaw, Mich. – The Saginaw Spirit announced Sunday that Assistant Coach Justin Pereira has accepted the position of Head Coach and Assistant GM of the Rockland Nationals Jr. A hockey club.

“We want to wish Justin the best of luck moving forward,” said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill. “He worked extremely hard with us this season and I’m excited to see him take the reigns of his own program in Rockland.”

The 2022-2023 season was Pereira’s first in Saginaw. Prior to his time with the Spirit, he spent three seasons as the head coach of the Oakville Rangers AAA. He was also the Assistant/Strength Coach for the Oakville Blades of the OJHL.

“This is not only a development league for players, but for staff as well,” said Drinkill. “Anytime someone is promoted to a higher position, it’s a proud moment for the franchise.”

The Rockland Nationals compete in the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL), and have been in Rockland since the 2017-2018 season.