Dan Cleary Appointed Interim General Manager for Grand Rapids Griffins

Lansing, MI, September 26, 2026 —

Dan Cleary, a former player for the Detroit Red Wings, has been appointed to the role of interim general manager for the Grand Rapids Griffins.

The Grand Rapids Griffins are a professional ice hockey team affiliated with the Detroit Red Wings. The team competes in the American Hockey League (AHL). The appointment of an interim general manager suggests a temporary leadership position while a permanent selection process may be underway or a specific situation requires immediate coverage of the role’s responsibilities.

As interim general manager, Cleary will be responsible for the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of the team. This typically includes player personnel decisions, contract negotiations, scouting, and overseeing the team’s management staff. The scope of his duties will be determined by the specific structure and needs of the Grand Rapids Griffins organization during this interim period. Information regarding the duration of his interim appointment or the criteria for selecting a permanent general manager was not immediately available.

Cleary’s history with the Detroit Red Wings provides him with significant experience within professional hockey. His tenure as a player with the NHL club established his connection to the sport’s highest levels. This background is often considered valuable when transitioning into management roles, offering insights into player development, team building, and the competitive landscape of professional hockey.

The Grand Rapids Griffins have a history of developing talent for the Detroit Red Wings, serving as a critical part of the NHL team’s organizational structure. The role of general manager is pivotal in nurturing this relationship and ensuring the success of both the AHL club and the broader player development pipeline. Further details concerning Cleary’s specific mandate and the team’s upcoming plans are expected to be released by the organization.

Story summarized from the original created by Rachel Van Gilder on www.wlns.com, see more information here.

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