The Grand Rapids Griffins, American Hockey League affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings, have named former Cincinnati Cyclones Head Coach Ben Simon as new assistant coach. Simon heads to Grand Rapids after serving as an assistant coach for the Toronto Marlies, AHL affiliate of the Toronto Maple Leafs last season.

A native of Shaker Heights, OH, Simon spent the 2013-2014 campaign at the helm of the Cyclones, leading the team to a 41-23-4 regular season record, and a trip to the Kelly Cup Finals where the Cyclones fell to the Alaska Aces in six games. 

Simon's coaching career began with Sheffield in the EIHL, serving as the team's head coach during the 2010-2011 season. He led the Steelers to a League championship that season, before serving the next two seasons as an assistant for the AHL's Rockford IceHogs.

Prior to stepping behind the bench, the 37-year-old enjoyed an 11 year pro career that included 81 NHL games with the Atlanta Thrashers and Columbus Blue Jackets. In 762 total professional games, the 2000 University of Notre Dame graduate accounted for 119 goals and 178 assists for 297 total points. 

The countdown to the 2015-16 First Face-Off is underway! The Cyclones will return to U.S. Bank Arena on Saturday, October 17 when they host the Toledo Walleye at 7:30pm. Between now and then, be on the lookout for several offseason events like Meijer Concrete Clones! 2015-16 Season Ticket Packages are available NOW! Call 513.421.PUCK to reserve your seats. Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the offseason on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), and Instagram!