The NHL Coach Who Fell in Love with Kearney: Meet the Storm’s Newest Leader

John Torchetti’s hockey journey stretches across decades, leagues, and championships, but today it has brought him to Kearney, Nebraska, where he now serves as President, Director of Hockey Operations, and Head Coach of the Tri-City Storm. Born and raised in Boston, Torchetti grew up in the heart of New England hockey culture. His story with the sport began when he was just four years old, when his mother took him figure skating on an outdoor rink. He fell in love instantly, drawn to the feeling of gliding across the ice, not yet knowing the path it would set for the rest of his life. He went on to play eight years of professional minor-league hockey, reaching the finals six times and winning championships along the way. That competitive edge and commitment to the grind later shaped his coaching philosophy, one that would take him to the NHL for more than 18 years. Throughout his NHL career, Torchetti served as both an assistant and interim head coach for several teams and reached the pinnacle of the sport in 2010, winning the Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Before landing in Kearney, Torchetti coached in nearly every major league around the world, the NHL, AHL, KHL, WHL, and more, but what brought him here wasn’t just hockey. It was an opportunity to build something meaningful with a community-driven organization known for developing elite players and passionate fans. When asked about his journey before joining the Storm, Torchetti reflects on the hard work, sacrifice, and months of effort it takes to reach the finals as a team. That mentality is something he now instills in the young athletes wearing the Storm logo.

Since arriving in Kearney, he has quickly embraced the town and its people. He says he loves visiting local restaurants, not only for the food but for the people who serve it. With the fall weather being so beautiful, he’s also enjoyed walking the parks, taking in the scenery, and exploring the community as he settles into his new home. The friendliness of Kearney residents stands out most to him. He notices how people are always in good spirits, and he believes it’s a great place to raise children. That warmth and hospitality play a big role in making Kearney feel like home, not just for him, but for his players as well.

Inside the locker room, Torchetti sees something special forming this season. He loves that the team is starting to truly understand what it means to play for each other. That bond, he believes, is the foundation of every successful team he’s coached. When Storm fans pack the arena and bring the energy, he says it means everything. Their support inspires the players to work harder and give more, and the team feels that connection every night they take the ice. “It means everything to us as a team,” he says. “They support us every night. Our team wants to work hard for them for all the support they give us.” Coach Torch

Whether he’s testing restaurants around town, enjoying walks at the park, or shaping the next generation of hockey talent, John Torchetti has quickly become part of the Kearney community. His journey has taken him around the world, but now it continues right here in the heart of the Midwest with a team he believes in, a town he appreciates, and fans who make the game worth playing.

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