Mercyhurst University Athletics

Matt Nicholson joined the Laker staff ahead of the 2021-22 season.

"We are all very excited to have Matt join our Mercyhurst hockey family. He brings a tremendous amount of experience, working knowledge, and above all professionalism to our team," said Gotkin. "Having head coaching experience in the North American Hockey League as well as serving on the coaching staffs at Adrian College, Robert Morris University, and Niagara University has prepared him very well to make a seamless transition into our program. He brings a tremendous amount of knowledge about our players along with a great understanding of the Atlantic Hockey Association. We are all very happy to welcome Matt to Erie, and Mercyhurst University." 

Nicholson brings a wealth of Atlantic Hockey coaching serving as an assistant coach at Robert Morris and most recently at Niagara. In his time at Niagara, Nicolson served as the recruiting coordinator as well as directing the power play. 

Before joining the Purple Eagles, Nicholson served as the head coach of the Amarillo Bulls from 2015-17. In the 16-17 season, the Bulls posted a 24-point improvement over the season before narrowly missing the NAHL postseason.  

Nicolson spent six years as an assistant at Robert Morris including two seasons as the associate head coach. Nicholson was behind the bench for the Colonials' first Atlantic Hockey Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance. In his final season with Robert Morris the Colonials posted the best record in program history going 24-8-5. 

Nicholson's coaching career started at Adrian College, an NCAA Division III program. In his time at Adrian, the Bulldogs went 53-4-1. 

Nicholson played four seasons at Colgate playing in 123 games scoring two goals and adding 10 assists.  

"With classes starting and the season quickly approaching, I'm looking forward to joining Rick [Gotkin] and Greg [Gardner] and the Mercyhurst staff," said Nicholson. "I'm excited to dive in and start working with and developing the players."