Plymouth Whalers GM-coach Mike Vellucci named OHL executive of the year

PLYMOUTH, Mich. - Plymouth Whalers general manager Mike Vellucci was named Ontario Hockey League executive of the year on Monday.

Vellucci, who also serves as the team's president, governor and head coach, was named OHL coach of the year earlier this spring. He guided the Whalers to their 12th West Division title in franchise history with a 42-17-9 record for 93 points.

“I believe Mike is very deserving of this award. I am very proud of him,” Whalers owner Peter Karmanos Jr. said in a release. “As good of a coach as Mike is he is an even better business executive. Being able to perform both jobs is something that is very difficult.

"I believe Mike’s ability to excel at both jobs and perform in an outstanding fashion is something that is very impressive, unique, and truly sets him apart. To win both coach of the year and executive of the year is quite an accomplishment.”

The executive of the year award is selected by the OHL's Executive Council. It is presented annually to the executive whose team demonstrates success both on the ice and at the administration level through excellent organization and franchise success.

Vellucci will be formally presented with his awards Tuesday at a league ceremony in Toronto.

Also Monday, the Whalers traded goaltender Matt Mahalak to the Kingston Frontenacs for a pair of third-round draft picks.