MANKATO, Minn. --- Minnesota State head coach Luke Strand has announced that Cory McCracken will take on new responsibilities as Director of Player Personnel and Keith Paulsen will assume a new role as Associate Head Coach.

Both McCracken and Paulsen have been members of the Maverick staff since Strand's arrival in 2023 and have played key roles in helping Minnesota State remain among the nation's elite programs.

The Mavericks have compiled a 67-35-14 record during their tenure, capturing both the CCHA Regular Season Championship (MacNaughton Cup) and CCHA Mason Cup Championship in 2025 and 2026. The coaching staff has also guided Minnesota
State to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.

During their time behind the Maverick bench, Minnesota State players have earned seven conference major awards, including Sam Morton (Forward of the Year, 2024; Player of the Year, 2024), Alex Tracy (Goaltender of the Year, 2025; Player of the Year, 2025), Rhett Pitlick (Forward of the Year, 2025), and Evan Murr (Defensive Player of the Year, 2025 and 2026). Tracy (2025) and Murr (2026) were also recognized as CCM/AHCA Second Team All-Americans.

"Cory and Keith have been instrumental in establishing the standard and culture that continue to drive our program forward," said Strand. "Both have earned these opportunities through their commitment to our student-athletes, their investment in player development, recruiting, and their ability to positively impact every aspect of our program. Their loyalty, work ethic, and belief in what we are building at Minnesota State have helped position us among the top programs in college hockey. The restructuring of these positions is a reflection of the value they bring to our staff, our players, and our future."

McCracken's expanded role as Director of Player Personnel will include oversight of roster management, recruiting strategy, player acquisition, and long-term personnel planning while continuing his on-ice coaching responsibilities.

Paulsen will continue to play a critical role in player development, recruiting, special teams, and daily program operations as he assumes the title of Associate Head Coach.

Over the course of their tenure at Minnesota State, Strand, McCracken, and Paulsen have helped 24 Mavericks advance to professional hockey, further solidifying the program's reputation for developing players on and off the ice.

"As college hockey continues to evolve, having experienced leaders who understand our culture and vision is critical," Strand added. "These promotions provide continuity, reward excellence, and position our program to continue pursuing championships while developing young men prepared for success in hockey and in life."

"With the addition of Chad Kolarik as Associate Head Coach, we feel our staff is complete and exceptionally well-positioned for the future," said Strand. "Cory, Keith, and Chad each bring unique strengths, experiences, and perspectives that complement one another and strengthen every area of our program. As coaches, teachers, recruiters, and leaders, they provide tremendous value to our student-athletes and our organization. The alignment within this group is powerful, and together they will help continue to elevate Minnesota State Hockey while developing young men on and off the ice. We are excited about what this staff can accomplish moving forward."