Minnesota Northern Lights Name Jeff Jones Head Coach for Inaugural FPHL Season

THIEF RIVER FALLS, MN. — The Minnesota Northern Lights Hockey Club, proud members of the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL), are excited to announce the hiring of Jeff Jones as the organization's first Head Coach ahead of the club's inaugural season in Single-A professional hockey.

Jones brings a wealth of hockey experience, leadership, and player development expertise to the Northern Lights as the organization prepares to make its debut in the FPHL. His extensive playing background and commitment to building successful teams make him an ideal choice to lead Minnesota into its first season of professional hockey.

"We are thrilled to welcome Jeff Jones as the first Head Coach in Minnesota Northern Lights history," said Northern Lights management. "Jeff's experience, work ethic, and passion for the game make him the perfect leader to establish the culture and identity of our organization. His dedication to player development and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our vision for the future."

A former NCAA Division I player at Robert Morris University, Jones went on to enjoy a successful professional playing career, including multiple seasons in professional hockey and an impressive tenure in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). During his playing career, Jones appeared in 159 SPHL games and scored 57 career goals, ranking among the league's notable offensive contributors.

Most recently, Jones served as Assistant Coach of the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, where he played an important role in player development, game preparation, and team success. His transition to head coaching marks the next chapter in a hockey career defined by leadership both on and off the ice.

"I'm honored and excited to join the Minnesota Northern Lights organization," said Jones. "Building a team from the ground up is a tremendous opportunity, and I'm looking forward to working with our players, staff, and community in Northern Minnesota. Our goal will be to develop players by building a culture tempered by hard work & accountability creating a team that the Thief River Falls community can rally behind."

As the Northern Lights prepare for their inaugural campaign, Jones will immediately begin assembling the team's hockey operations staff and evaluating talent for the club's first training camp and season.

The Minnesota Northern Lights will compete in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL), a Single-A professional hockey league that continues to provide opportunities for players, coaches, and officials while delivering affordable, community-focused professional hockey across North America.

Additional announcements regarding player signings, hockey operations staff, and team events will be released in the coming weeks.

About the Minnesota Northern Lights

The Minnesota Northern Lights Hockey Club is a professional hockey organization based in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, and will begin play in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL). The club is committed to developing talent, engaging the community, and establishing a championship-caliber culture both on and off the ice.

A New Light. A New Era.