Michigan on Sunday announced that it will turn to a familiar face to lead its men’s hockey program on an interim basis following the sudden firing of head coach Mel Pearson.

Brandon Naurato, who joined the Wolverines as an assistant prior to the 2021-22 season after serving in a player development role with the Detroit Red Wings, has been named the team’s interim head coach. A forward with the Maize and Blue from 2005-2009, Naurato was a member of the 2007-08 squad that advanced to the Frozen Four.

“I am honored to lead my alma mater and will give everything I have to what is the most storied program in college hockey,” Naurato said in a press release. “I want to thank Warde Manuel and our student-athletes for their trust and look forward to working positively with our talented coaching and support staff.”

Pearson was fired on Friday amidst an investigation that included, among other things, allegations of gender-or sexual-based discrimination. He was with the program for 5 seasons, leading the Wolverines to a pair of Frozen Four appearances. Prior to his arrival in Ann Arbor, he led the Michigan Tech program from 2011 to 2017, recording NCAA bids in 2 of his final 3 seasons.