The EHL’s CT Nor’Easter has announced the hiring of Nielsson Arcibal as the program’s new general manager and head coach ahead of the 2025–26 season.

Arcibal will also serve as vice president of hockey operations at the International Skating Center of Connecticut, overseeing broader program development and player advancement initiatives.

“We’re excited to welcome Nielsson to the Nor’Easter family,” said CT Nor’Easter Jr. Hockey governor Adam Westhaver. “He brings a rare combination of playing experience, coaching acumen, and leadership ability. He’s a coach who values structure and discipline – qualities that are critical to creating a winning environment. His understanding of what it takes to develop players and build a strong, competitive culture aligns perfectly with our goals as an organization.”

Arcibal brings a deep and diverse hockey background to the Nor’Easter, most recently serving as the video coach for the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack for the 2024–25 season. Prior to his AHL role, he spent two seasons with NCAA Division I American International College – his alma mater – as director of hockey operations and then as an assistant coach.

A Vista native, Arcibal’s playing career began in the NAHL, where he captured a league title with the Texas Tornado in 2006. He also played in the USHL with the Des Moines Buccaneers. Arcibal went on to play four years at AIC, serving as captain his senior season and graduating as the program’s all-time Division I assists leader. He still ranks in the top 10 in career points for the Yellow Jackets.

Professionally, Arcibal competed in Sweden, the ECHL and SPHL, and won gold medals with Team USA at the IIHF Inline Hockey World Championships in both 2013 and 2017.

“Nielsson has a deep passion for the game and a track record of leading by example,” Westhaver said. “We believe he’s the right person to help elevate our program to the next level, both in terms of on-ice performance and player advancement. We’re thrilled to have him leading the charge.”

In addition to his college and pro experience, Arcibal has coached at the junior level with the USPHL’s Springfield Pics and is the founder and head trainer of ARC Hockey Training, where he works with players across all ages and skill levels to develop elite-level habits and skills.

— CT Nor’easter Staff

(April 25, 2025)