October 8, 2024 – The Omaha Mavericks have announced that head coach Mike Gabinet has signed a contract extension, keeping him as head coach of the hockey program through the 2027-28 season. A former standout player for the Mavericks in 2004, Gabinet became the third head coach in Omaha hockey history and will enter his eighth season in 2024-25.
Adrian Dowell, vice chancellor and director of athletics, expressed his enthusiasm about the extension. “We are excited to have reached an agreement with Coach Gabinet which will extend his time at UNO. During his tenure, Maverick hockey has become a staple in the national polls, appeared in multiple NCAA tournaments, and achieved unprecedented feats in our program’s history over the past several seasons.”
Dowell emphasized the importance of stability as college athletics undergoes significant changes. “As our industry experiences unprecedented change, more than ever, our organization values this program’s productive stability built on competitive and academic success, development, and culture. We look forward to the continued rise of Omaha hockey under Mike Gabinet’s leadership.”
Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, echoed Dowell’s sentiment, recognizing Gabinet’s influence both in and out of the rink. “Coach Gabinet is a true Maverick who has built a remarkable culture of winning that extends beyond the ice. His commitment to excellence, both in competition and in the personal development of our student-athletes, is something the entire Omaha community takes pride in. We are thrilled to have him continue leading our Mavericks, and I look forward to what the future holds for this incredible team.”
University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., added his congratulations, emphasizing Gabinet’s role as an ambassador for the university. “It’s great news for the Maverick family and the entire Omaha community that Coach Gabinet will continue to lead our program going forward. Coach Gabinet is a fierce competitor, a strong leader, and an outstanding ambassador for UNO and the University of Nebraska. Congratulations Coach, Chancellor Li, and Athletic Director Dowell, and Go Mavs!”
Since taking over as head coach, Gabinet has helped elevate the Mavericks to levels of sustained success. The team securing NCAA Championship berths twice in the past four seasons and, last season, made history by advancing to the NCHC Frozen Faceoff and the conference championship game for the first time in program history.
