Grand Rapids, MI -- A new chapter in Aquinas College Hockey has begun.
The Saints have officially announced the hiring of Nolan Smith as the ACHA Division III Men's Hockey Head Coach, marking an exciting expansion of the college's hockey program. While Aquinas has already built a strong foundation with its existing ACHA Division I men's team, the addition of a second varsity squad at the Division III level opens new doors for student-athletes looking to compete, grow, and represent AQ on the ice.
For Smith, the appointment is a full-circle moment. A member of Aquinas' inaugural hockey team, he now returns to lead a brand-new program into its first season in Fall 2025, when the Saints will begin play in the Michigan Collegiate Hockey Conference (MCHC) — an ACHA Division III league featuring competitive teams from across the state of Michigan.
Aquinas did have a ACHA Division III team until the 2017 season, before transitioning into NAIA and ACHA Division I during the 2017-2018 season. In fact, Jordan Permoda was the Head Coach when Aquinas won the ACHA Division III National Title in 2016.
"When I was a prospective student, I loved the small campus feel within a big city," Smith said. "As a coach, I'm excited to help student-athletes share in the amazing time I had at AQ. It's an amazing school with so many amazing people."
Smith most recently served as head coach of Ferris State's ACHA Division III team, where he defeated the top-ranked team in the nation during the 2023–24 season and significantly improved his team's academic eligibility rates. His combination of on-ice strategy and off-ice mentorship aligns perfectly with Aquinas' values as the program grows.
"The appointment of Nolan Smith as our inaugural NCAA Division III Men's Hockey Head Coach marks an exciting new chapter for Aquinas College," said Dr. Ronald D. Reeves, Aquinas College Athletic Director. "Nolan brings a deep understanding of the game, a commitment to student-athlete development, and a passion that aligns perfectly with our mission and values. We are confident he will build a competitive and culture-driven program from the ground up."
The DIII team's launch represents a significant step in Aquinas' commitment to expanding athletic opportunities. With two men's hockey teams — one at the ACHA Division I level and now one at the Division III level — more Saints will have the opportunity to wear the jersey and compete in meaningful collegiate action.
"Coach Smith is a tireless worker and proven leader who has earned the respect of players and coaches alike," said Brandon Rozema, Aquinas Director of Hockey Operations and Head Coach of the DI men's team. "His ability to develop talent and foster a positive locker room culture made him the clear choice to lead our new DIII program. I'm thrilled to have him on board and look forward to seeing the impact he'll have on the next generation of Saints hockey."
A Grand Rapids native with family roots in Hopkins, MI, Smith holds a bachelor's degree in Education with focuses in Learning Disabilities, Social Studies, and History from Aquinas, and a master's degree in Special Education (Emotional Impairments) from Grand Valley State. He enjoys watching Detroit Lions football, playing men's league hockey, and spending time outdoors.
With a culture-driven leader at the helm and a community ready to support, Aquinas is poised to elevate its hockey tradition — now across two teams — as excitement builds toward Fall 2025.
