Kats Name New Head Hockey Coach
Bill Orr Named Head Coach of SUNY Erie Men’s Hockey Team
Buffalo, NY – August 1, 2025 — SUNY Erie Community College is proud to announce the promotion of Bill Orr to Head Coach of the Kats Men’s Hockey Team. A former Kats defenseman and longtime assistant coach, Orr becomes just the fifth head coach in the storied history of the program.
“Bill has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the program and to the success of our student-athletes,” said Steve Mullen, Director of Athletics at SUNY Erie. “As both a player and coach, he’s lived the culture of this team—and now he’s the ideal leader to take it forward.”
Orr, who previously wore the Kats jersey as a student-athlete, returned to the program as a coach and has been an integral part of its success for over 20 seasons—helping to maintain the program’s strong reputation and developing players who contribute to a winning culture year after year.
SUNY Erie’s men’s hockey program has a long and proud tradition, including two NJCAA National Championships—in 2011 and 2015. In the 2015 title run, the Kats posted a remarkable 25–3 record, capping the season with a 2–1 victory over Williston State College.
Orr also helped guide the team to an Upstate New York Championship, further underscoring SUNY Erie’s consistent presence among the top collegiate hockey programs in the area. “I’m incredibly honored and excited to lead this program,” said Orr. “This team means a lot to me—not only because of the great history, but because of the players, past and present, who give everything for the game. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue building something special here.”
Orr’s promotion marks a new chapter in a program deeply rooted in tradition—one that longtime coach Gary Rost has helped build from the very beginning. Rost has been involved with SUNY Erie hockey since its inception, serving in nearly every capacity, including as an assistant coach during Orr’s playing days. That continuity has shaped a strong team culture, and Orr has been instrumental in maintaining the program’s competitive edge and mentoring the next generation of Kats hockey players.
“Coach Rost has meant so much to this program—and to me personally,” said Orr. “He was on the bench when I played here, and I’ve learned a great deal from him over the years. His commitment to SUNY Erie hockey has set the foundation for everything we’ve accomplished, and I’m proud to carry that legacy forward.”
With Coach Orr’s leadership and passion, SUNY Erie looks ahead to a new era of excellence—rooted in legacy and driven by opportunity. The 2025–2026 campaign kicks off this October, as the Kats hit the ice with high expectations and a legacy to build on.