The ECHL’s New Mexico Goatheads have announced the team’s first head coach and first player signing.

First, back on June 20, the organization announced that Zack Stortini has been named head coach ahead of the team’s inaugural 2026–27 season at the Rio Rancho Events Center.

Stortini becomes the first coach tasked with leading the return of professional hockey to New Mexico, bringing with him a combination of NHL experience, championship pedigree, player development, and leadership that made him a standout throughout the coaching search process.

“From the beginning, Zack stood out because of the energy and leadership he brings to a locker room,” said Goatheads GM Jared Johnson. “He understands the importance of culture, accountability, and building a team that fans can rally behind. This is a massive moment for our organization, and we’re excited to have Zack leading us into our inaugural season.

Most recently, Stortini served as an assistant coach with the AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners following three seasons with the OHL’s Sudbury Wolves. Throughout his coaching career, he has developed a reputation for connecting with players and helping establish strong team cultures while working alongside several NHL prospects.

Before transitioning behind the bench, Stortini played 14 professional seasons, including 257 NHL games with the Edmonton Oilers and Nashville Predators. Widely respected for his toughness, work ethic, and leadership during his playing career, he also won two Calder Cup championships in the AHL.

Away from the rink, Stortini was also recognized for his impact in the community. During his time in Charlotte with the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers, he earned the team’s IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year award 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.

Then on July 10, the Goatheads announced the signing of forward Grant Ahcan to an ECHL contract for the 2026-27 season, making him the first player in franchise history.

Ahcan becomes the first official member of the Goatheads’ inaugural roster as the organization prepares for its historic first season this October.

“Grant Ahcan embodies everything we want the New Mexico Goatheads to represent,” said Stortini. “He is an outstanding leader, an exceptional teammate, and someone who competes the right way every day. Naming Grant as the first player in franchise history speaks to the culture we are committed to building from day one. We are excited to welcome Grant and his family to New Mexico and look forward to the impact he will make, both on and off the ice.”

The 24-year-old joins New Mexico following a four-year collegiate career at NCAA Division I St. Cloud State University, where he appeared in 114 career games. Ahcan served as team captain during the 2025-26 season, skating in all 36 games while recording four goals and five assists for nine points.

Following the conclusion of his collegiate career, Ahcan signed his first professional contract with the Iowa Heartlanders, making his professional debut in the ECHL late in the 2025-26 season. Earlier this summer, he also earned an invitation to the Colorado Avalanche Development Camp, skating alongside many of the organization’s top prospects as he continued his transition to the professional ranks.

Ahcan also brings strong professional hockey ties to New Mexico. His older brother, Jack, spent the past three seasons between the Colorado Eagles and Colorado Avalanche before signing with the Nashville Predators organization this offseason, while his brother, Roman, currently plays for the Cleveland Monsters, the AHL affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Grant and Jack are also the first siblings in St. Cloud State’s Division I era to each serve as team captain.

Before his collegiate career, Ahcan played junior hockey with the USHL’s Cedar Rapids RoughRiders and NAHL’s Bismarck Bobcats.

Opening Night for the Goatheads is set for Friday, October 16, at the Rio Rancho Events Center.

Ahcan photo/St. Cloud State Athletics

— New Mexico Goatheads Staff

(July 11, 2026)