The Colorado Thunderbirds are proud to announce the addition of Jordan Pietrus as the Director of Hockey Operations. Pietrus, a former Division I and professional player of nearly a decade, and current Vice President of TPH Colorado, joins the existing group of professionals at the Thunderbirds with an eye to strengthen the foundation that has been built over the past two decades. 

“Colorado is home for me and I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to lead the Thunderbirds program and make an impact in the Colorado hockey community,” said Pietrus. “I am extremely excited to help the aspiring young hockey players in our state achieve their dreams and compete at the highest level each and every year. Being involved in the game at the youth level is an unbelievable opportunity to mentor and guide these young men and women in the most formative years of their lives, and I cannot wait to continue to be able to do this with the Thunderbirds players!” 

A graduate of Brown University, Pietrus has always been passionate about serving others, receiving multiple awards throughout his career for community service and leadership. Pietrus has transitioned that passion for service into his work with TPH where he serves as the Vice President of TPH Colorado and spearheaded the launch of the Denver TPH Academy in 2019. Pietrus has been mentoring young athletes on the ice and in the classroom at the TPH Academy and volunteering in other local programs such as Team Colorado Girls, the Arapahoe Warriors and the Thunderbirds. Pietrus will continue in his role at TPH while focusing on the growth of the Thunderbirds program and youth hockey in Colorado. 

“This is a big step for the Colorado Thunderbirds as we are grateful to have a person like Jordan join our Thunderbirds family,” stated Angelo Ricci, Executive Director. “Jordan has made a positive impact everywhere he has gone in his career and we are thrilled to know he will be investing his time and energy in our coaches, players and families. He is someone who cares deeply, not only about the Thunderbirds, but also the growth of the game in Colorado.” 

"I'm hoping as the next Director of the Thunderbirds that I can lead with the professionalism that Angelo has had for so many years," Pietrus said. "I have big shoes to fill, but I'm up for the challenge. Over the past few years, I’ve also been able to see first-hand how incredible Kim Feno is and what she has meant to this organization. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Kim; she works tirelessly for the families and cares deeply about maintaining the strong tradition of the Colorado Thunderbirds. The combination of working with Kim and the incredible coaching staff that has been assembled makes me even more excited to be a part of this team and work to support each member of our Thunderbirds Family.” The Thunderbirds have a rich history of player development and advancement, with one National Championship, 32 state titles, 11 current NHL players and countless players that have advanced to play at all levels of college and professional hockey. Ricci, the architect of the Thunderbird program, will remain as the Executive Director and mentor to Pietrus and Thunderbirds players. He will continue to oversee other aspects within the organization.  

“I am so excited to add Jordan to our leadership group,” said Ricci.  “I will still certainly be involved; however, I have the utmost confidence in Jordan and I will be leaning heavily on him to take the program to new heights.”