NY Islanders add former Olympian to Rocky Thompson's AHL coaching staff

The Bridgeport Islanders aren’t planning to be pushovers this season, and their revamped coaching staff is proof. After naming Rocky Thompson as head coach earlier this summer, the AHL affiliate of the New York Islanders has filled out its bench with two seasoned hires: David Cunniff and Chad Kolarik will serve as assistant coaches for the 2025–26 campaign. With Thompson's fiery reputation and an experienced staff around him, Bridgeport is building a foundation that demands respect.

Cunniff, 54, reunites with the Islanders organization after a successful stint as Head Coach and GM of their ECHL affiliate, the Worcester Railers, from 2020 to 2023. Most recently behind the bench for the Utica Comets, Cunniff brings over 20 years of AHL coaching experience and a blue-collar mentality that matches the Islanders' identity.

Kolarik, 39, joins the staff after spending three seasons with USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program. A former Olympian and University of Michigan standout, he also played 12 years across the NHL, AHL, and Europe. His recent development work with high-end American prospects will be a major asset in Bridgeport’s efforts to foster the next wave of Islanders talent.

Bridgeport suffered an embarrassing season last year and was historically bad at home, leading to the firing of head coach Rick Kowalsky after two seasons. The AHL affiliate had been an afterthought for ex-GM Lou Lamoriello and his son Chris, but that's now changing under Mathieu Darche. The Islanders recognize that Bridgeport is a reflection of the larger organization, and a winning culture is essential everywhere within the organization, not just at the NHL level.

With Thompson leading the way and Cunniff and Kolarik bringing toughness, skill development, and accountability, Bridgeport is sending a message: they’re not just here to develop players, they’re here to win. Expect this group to play fast, compete hard, and push the Islanders’ pipeline forward.