Former Buffalo Sabre Michael Peca joins Amerks as assistant coach

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — A familiar face is returning to Western New York to serve as the Rochester Americans’ assistant coach.

Former Buffalo Sabre Michael Peca is joining the Amerks coaching staff, after serving as the player development coach for the Washington Capitals.

"I know I was ready for this endeavor and the year in Washington has really opened my eyes to how much I love coaching, how much I love every aspect that comes with coaching and development. It’s gonna be a great fit," Peca said.

Peca said that’s where he discovered his love for coaching.

"I worked a lot with the taxi squad guys, who are predominantly up and down," Peca said. "They’re Hershey Bear players so I kinda got a feel for the way these guys think and what their goals are, how to push them, the improvements they need to make, all the little nuance things."