06/12/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NORTHWEST EXPRESS NAME BRANDON RICHARDSON FIRST HEAD COACH OF NCDC ERA
SPOONER, Wis. — The Northwest Express Hockey Club announced today the appointment of Brandon Richardson as the organization's Head Coach, making him the first bench boss in franchise history to lead the club into competition in the National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC).
Richardson joins the Express with an extensive background as both a player and coach, bringing experience from every level of the North American development model. A native of California, Richardson's playing career included stops in the North American Hockey League (NAHL), the United States Hockey League (USHL), NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Nebraska Omaha, and professional hockey.
His junior career culminated with the Indiana Ice of the USHL, where he played a key role in helping the organization capture the Clark Cup Championship before advancing to the University of Nebraska Omaha. Following his playing career, Richardson transitioned into coaching and has built a reputation as a respected teacher, recruiter, and developer of young talent.
The hiring represents a significant milestone for the Northwest Express as the organization prepares for its inaugural season in the NCDC, one of North America's premier Tier II junior hockey leagues.
"We conducted an extensive search for the individual we believed could lead our program into this next chapter, and Brandon quickly distinguished himself as the ideal candidate," said Northwest Express Owner and General Manager Joe Dibble. "His experience as a player at the NAHL, USHL, NCAA Division I, and professional levels gives him a unique understanding of the development path our players aspire to follow.
"Just as importantly, Brandon has established himself as an outstanding coach and mentor. His coaching resume, leadership ability, and commitment to player development bring an incredible wealth of knowledge not only to the Northwest Express organization but to the entire Spooner hockey community. We believe he will have a tremendous impact on our players, our staff, and the young athletes within SAYHA for years to come.
"As we enter our first season in the NCDC, we wanted a coach who shares our vision of building a first-class organization that develops players both on and off the ice. Brandon embodies those values, and we are excited to welcome him and his family to Spooner."
Richardson expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to help shape the future of the Express and establish a culture that reflects the values of the organization and community.
"I am completely honored to be named Head Coach of the Northwest Express for the upcoming season," said Richardson. "I would like to personally thank Joe Dibble for entrusting me with this opportunity.
"The Northwest Express are entering an exciting new era, and I am eager to help build a program that the community can be proud of. We will play a fast, physical, and disciplined style of hockey while creating an environment that allows our players to maximize their potential both on and off the ice.
"Junior hockey is about far more than wins and losses. It is about preparing young men for success in college, in hockey, and in life. I look forward to helping our players grow as athletes and individuals while becoming an active member of the Spooner community. The passion for hockey in this region is evident, and I cannot wait to get started."
Richardson will immediately begin preparations for the 2026-27 season, including player recruitment, staff development, and roster construction as the Express continue building toward their inaugural NCDC campaign.
The Northwest Express organization welcomes Brandon and his family to Spooner and looks forward to the leadership, experience, and vision he brings to the next chapter of Express hockey.
About the Northwest Express
The Northwest Express are a Tier II junior hockey organization competing in the National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) Based in Spooner, Wisconsin, the Express are committed to advancing players to collegiate and professional opportunities while serving as a positive force throughout the community and helping grow the game of hockey across Northwest Wisconsin.
