One of the most accomplished American-born players in hockey history is returning to his roots. The University of Wisconsin men’s hockey program announced on Thursday that former NHL All-Star Joe Pavelski has joined the coaching staff as the Director of Player Development ahead of the 2026-27 season.
2x Olympian and 18-year NHL veteran Joe Pavelski officially becomes part of the Wisconsin staff as Director of Player Development. pic.twitter.com/SJCbk3DILM
— Game Notes (@GameNotesBud) August 20, 2026
The native of Plover, Wisconsin, spent two highly successful seasons starring for the Badgers from 2004 to 2006. He amassed 98 points in 82 games and capped off his collegiate career by leading the program to its sixth National Championship in 2006.
"I'm excited to help out at Wisconsin, a place that's close to my heart," Pavelski said in a statement released by the university. "Growing up in the state and being a Badger fan, then being able to spend two years winning a national title for the Badgers, it was such a big stepping-stone in my career... We're all trying to get to that same goal and keep the Badgers on top right where we should be".
Over 18 seasons split between the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars, Pavelski compiled 476 goals and 592 assists for 1,068 points in 1,332 career games. He played in the NHL All-Star Game four times, including during his career-best campaign of 2021-22 with the Stars in which he registered 27 goals and 54 assists for 81 points in all 82 game