Otto to move into an assistant coaching role for Pines hockey

After two seasons as the Northland Pines varsity hockey head coach and delivering the first state championship since 1989 last season, the Northland Pines School District announced that Coach Zach Otto had decided to move into an assistant coaching position with the team starting next season.

The change led to current assistant coach Nic Weight being named head coach for the Eagles.

It will allow Otto to balance professional responsibilities and other family commitments while continuing to coach in the program he helped build.

“While I am stepping down as head coach, I am excited to continue being part of the program as an assistant coach,” Otto said in the release. “Northland Pines hockey means a great deal to me, and I look forward to supporting our players, coaches and program in this new role.”

Former Northland Pines Activities Director AJ Zayia thanked Otto for his time building the program during the few years as head coach.

“We are incredibly grateful for everything Coach Otto has done for our hockey program. His impact extends far beyond wins and the state championship,” Zayia stated. “His legacy is the positive influence he has had on our student-athletes. He has emphasized developing young men of character, integrity and accountability both on and off the ice.”

Weight now steps into the lead of the program that is coming off a state championship season while he was an assistant coach. Weight mentioned what Northland Pines hockey is about and the respect he has for Otto, as the coaching pair will remain behind the bench.
“Northland Pines hockey has always been built on something greater than wins and losses. It is built on tradition, pride, commitment and the people who have dedicated themselves to creating an experience that shapes young men both on and off the ice,” explained Weight. “I have tremendous respect and appreciation for everything Coach Otto has done to strengthen and elevate this program. His leadership, passion and commitment have left a lasting impact on countless players and families, and I am truly grateful that he will continue to be part of our program.”

The athletic department is excited for this next chapter while keeping the structure and consistency that have the program moving forward.

Any athletic-related questions can be directed to the new Pines Activities Director, Steve Walsh. He can be reached by phone at 715-479-6286 or by email at stwalsh@npsd.k12.wi.us.