According to the The Tech Still Sucks Blog, it is looking very likely that Northern Michigan assistant coach John Olver will be leaving to work for the Iowa Stars of the American Hockey League. Neither the school nor the Iowa Stars have confirmed the story, but it seems pretty solid, especially since Olver's former job is posted on Northern Michigan's website.
Olver has played a key role in recruiting for the Wildcats. One of his sons, Darin, graduated from Northern this year, while another son, Mark, is scheduled to start playing for the Wildcats next fall.
UPDATE: As expected, it's now official that Olver has left NMU.
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It's official: John Olver's headed to Iowa.
I wonder if this does anything to Mark Olver's commitment to Northern Michigan. Olver had a great season for the Omaha Lancer and was clearly the best player on the team. He should have been at least a second team All USHL pick. He has decent speed, passes well, has a nice wrist shot, is one of the best defensive players in the league and is a great PK.
Since his older brother went to NMU prior to his dad being on staff, I would guess that this would not affect his commitment, but he could still play another year of Jr. Hockey and play somewhere else, perhaps closer to dad?
Tom
When Olver left Idaho to come to NMU, it is believed that there was a clause that allowed him to easily return to either the Steelheads or to Iowa.
The assumption is that John wanted to hang around in Marquette long enough to coach both of his sons, but last year Mark got pushed back a year to extend his development. Then Iowa pitched the money at him, forcing the move.
At this point, Mark Olver hasn't signed an NLI, although he was expected to very soon. I don't know how much John's move will play into Mark's decision, though, as he hasn't played near him in years.
Look for Mark Olver to possibly sign on at UNO.
Are you sure about Mark Olver? According to Inside College Hockey's recruiting page, Mark Olver has an "*" next to his name, which indicates the school has confirmed the player has signed his national letter of intent.
I was sure about Mark on Wednesday. He has very likely solidified his commitment since then, but I won't know until Monday for sure.
Look for Northern Michigan to hire Eastview HS (Apple Valley, MN) head coach Mike Gibbons.
Mark Olver has officially signed
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