The Stockton Thunder have named Zach Pochiro the team’s head coach ahead of the inaugural 2026–27 Federal Prospects Hockey League season.

Pochiro takes the next step in his hockey career as head coach of the Thunder.

Born in St. Louis and raised in Las Vegas, Pochiro developed through youth hockey, including time with the Los Angeles Jr. Kings, before playing junior hockey with the NAHL’s Wichita Falls Wildcats and WHL’s Prince George Cougars. Following his first season with Prince George, he was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the fourth round (112th overall) of the 2013 NHL Draft.

Pochiro went on to build an extensive professional playing career that included appearances in the AHL with the Chicago Wolves and Bakersfield Condors, along with significant experience in the ECHL.

Known throughout his playing career for combining offensive production with size, physicality and competitiveness, Pochiro recorded one of his strongest professional seasons with the ECHL’s Allen Americans in 2018–19. He finished the campaign with 34 goals and 24 assists for 58 points in 63 games while also collecting 137 penalty minutes.

Following his playing career, Pochiro transitioned into player development, coaching and scouting. His experience has included work within the Vegas Jr. Golden Knights program and scouting for Prince George.

As head coach, Pochiro will oversee the Thunder’s day-to-day on-ice operations, including practices, systems, game preparation and player development. He will be tasked with developing a Thunder identity centered around speed, toughness, discipline and competitiveness as professional hockey begins a new chapter in Stockton.

Photo/Prince George Cougars

— Stockton Thunder Staff

(July 31, 2026)