Phantoms complete coaching staff

The Youngstown Phantoms hired Brandon Gotkin as an assistant coach, after serving with the Maryland Black Bears of the NAHL.

  Brandon spent the past three seasons with the Black Bears under the mentorship of Head Coach and GM, Clint Mylymok.  In his time in Maryland, the team made considerable strides leading up to their first NAHL Eastern Conference playoff appearance and first round win vs the Johnstown Tomahawks.  Brandon has been with Maryland since their inception and was an integral piece of their team's success on and off the ice.    

Brandon states "I am beyond excited and humbled for this great opportunity.  I have always respected the long-standing tradition of the Youngstown Phantoms organization.  I'd like to thank Mr. Zoldan and Mr. Gunty for providing such a wonderful opportunity for my development as a coach and mentor to our players.  I'd also like to thank Andrew Goldman for his assistance through this process.  I am a big believer that winning is a byproduct of development and the daily process.  I am ecstatic to create such an environment for our players to thrive in."

Maryland Black Bears Head Coach and General Manager, Clint Mylymok commented "Firstly, congratulations to Brandon on his well-deserved opportunity in Youngstown.  He is a talented and passionate coach.  More importantly, he is a fantastic human being who makes coming to the rink enjoyable.  We wish Brandon, and his wife, Marley, all the best in their new endeavor".  

Youngstown’s Co-GM's, Jason Deskins and Ryan Kosecki state "we are thrilled to have Brandon with us in Youngstown.  Brandon is a young, smart hockey mind that has a passion for helping players grow on and off the ice.  He comes to Youngstown well-versed from his time with Clint in Maryland.  As an organization, we pride ourselves in developing our players and coaches so they are prepared for the next steps of their journey and Brandon is a prime example of that.  We want to thank Clint Mylymok and our affiliate, the Maryland Black Bears, for their investment in Brandon's personal development as a coach.  He played an important role in this process and we are thankful for his support.  This hire completes our bench staff and we are eager to see the process begin with our players in Youngstown".  

Finally, from Phantoms Head Coach, Brad Patterson "We are extremely pleased to add Brandon to our staff.  I have had the pleasure of working with him in various settings over the past couple of years and I know he will be a tremendous asset to our players, staff, and community.  His passion and energy for the game are contagious and shows in the players he coaches"