Former Stanley Cup Champion Jack Johnson Joins OSU Women's Hockey Coaching Staff

Jack Johnson's career was riddled with controversy, as it was revealed that his family was stealing from him, to the tune of millions of dollars. 

That kind of story didn't stick around for long, for Johnson whose been a known competitor throughout his career. After abandoning the Columbus Blue Jackets the first time, he'd join the Pittsburgh Penguins, and as a journeyman, won his first Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022.

 Later, he'd find himself back in the Union Blue after stints in Chicago and Colorado again. The 1,228-game defenseman would later retire in Jan. 2026 and joined the Vancouver Canucks front office as a professional scout. 

Not satisfied with the results, it appears his career is taking shape elsewhere, as it was announced today by  Ohio State University that he'd be joining the women's hockey program as part of the coaching staff. 

"We're really excited to have a new member join our family here at Ohio State," Muzerall said. "To bring in Jack Johnson is going to continue to make our program better, both on the ice and really contribute to recruiting. When we talk about Ohio State, we talk about family and how we're all united. I think its very important that he exemplifies that. He's going to bring that to our program and I think our recruits are going to see that and I know our girls are going to feel that."

The third overall pick in 2005 by the Carolina Hurricanes didn't win his first Stanley Cup until 2022, but would become a veteran GMs would want in the lineup due to his leadership skills.

He'd return to Columbus for one more go-round, playing 41 games and scoring six points, adding to his career totals of 342 points (77 goals, 265 assists). 

"It's such a privilege and honor to be involved with the best women's college hockey program in the country," Johnson said. "I can't wait for the season to start and to continue Ohio State's pursuit of national championships." 

 

In over 1000+ games played in the NHL, Johnson has 1,831 blocks and 1,931 hits. He's represented the USA in the Olympics, winning the silver medal in 2010, and played for the U.S. Men's National Team five times (2009, 10,  11, 12) and U18 (2004, 05).