Matt Curley is in his first season with the Nanooks in 2025-26. He was announced as the associate head coach on July 15, 2025.
"We're incredibly excited to welcome Matt Curley to the Alaska Nanooks as our associate head coach," said head coach Erik Largen. "Matt brings a wealth of experience—from winning international medals with USA Hockey, to coaching in the USHL, NCAA, and Europe. He's a proven leader who's developed players at every level, and his time as a head coach at UAA gives him unique insight into what it takes to build and sustain a successful program in Alaska. Even more important than his resume is the kind of person he is. Matt is an unbelievable person, hardworking, and deeply committed to mentoring young men both on and off the ice. He builds strong relationships, brings out the best in his players, and leads with integrity. We're fortunate to add someone of his caliber to our staff and excited for the future of Nanooks Hockey."
Curley served as head coach and GM of the Des Moines Buccaneers from 2021–2025. Before his time in the USHL, he was head coach at the University of Alaska Anchorage from 2018–2021 and spent two seasons as an assistant coach at Bentley University from 2013–2015. Between his first two NCAA stints, Curley was the head coach for RB Hockey Juniors in Austria, spending 2015-18 there.Â
His resume also includes several years on the international stage with USA Hockey, serving as an assistant coach for the U.S. Under-17 and Under-18 national teams during the 2010–11, 2011–12, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2021–22, and 2022–23 seasons.
A native of Madrid, N.Y., Curley played four seasons at Clarkson University (2003–2007) and won the 2006-07 ECAC Tournament. Following college, he had a two-year professional career that included stints in the SPHL, IHL, and ECHL.Â
"I couldn't be happier to be coming back to the state of Alaska, a place that has always felt like home to me," said Curley. "I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Coach Largen, the rest of the Nanooks hockey staff and players. It is a privilege to be a part of a program that is so strongly supported by the community and University. I am looking forward to contributing towards the continued growth and development of Nanooks hockey."
Curley's combination of experience and leadership is expected to assist the Nanooks continue building momentum in years to come.Â
