The University of Toledo Hockey team is very excited to announce the addition of Simon Denis to the coaching staff.  Simon is well known in the Toledo hockey community having played for the Toledo Walleye (ECHL) for three seasons.  While with the Walleye, Simon appeared in 162 regular season games and an additional 17 playoff games.  In his time with the Walleye, the highly skilled defenseman produced 100 points on 23 goals and 77 assists, making him the franchise leader in goals, assists, and total points for a defenseman.  He also helped lead the team to the ECHL conference finals in two of his three seasons in Toledo. 

In addition to his professional experience with the Walleye, Simon also played professionally in South Korea and Japan for four seasons and played internationally representing Japan.  Prior to his professional career, Simon played at Ferris State University (NCAA D1) where he served as an assistant captain for two seasons and helped the team reach the NCAA Frozen Four and National Championship game during the 2011-2012 season.  He also earned a bachelor's degree in Applied Speech Communication. 

Since retiring from professional hockey, Simon has made his home in Sylvania, Ohio with his wife Amber and son Griffin.  He has also taken on the role of hockey director at Pillar Athletic Academy training both amateur and professional athletes.  Simon’s combination of playing experience and work in hockey specific skill training make him an ideal candidate to work with the Rockets. 

Simon will be joining Head Coach Kyle Measles and Assistant Coach Craig Trego whom will both be returning for the 2024-2025 season.  With the Rockets, Simon’s primary responsibility will be working with the team’s defenseman and developing the team’s defensive systems.  The Rockets will lean on Simon’s experience as they enter their second year in the Great Lakes Collegiate Hockey League and sixth year overall at the ACHA D1 level.