Breslin, Michael

Mike Breslin began his hockey journey in 1974 with his hometown Florham Park Hockey Association Squirts. Ed Balzarotti, one of his first coaches, played softball with Mike's father and thought Mike might like the game. Mike was a hard worker and made quick progress, developing into a solid defenseman with a hard shot. He joined Livingston Hockey Club in 1978 and moved to the New Jersey Northstars in 1979, playing for coaches Dave Loring and Pierre Pellaton. In 1982, he joined the New Jersey Rockets Junior "B" team, coached by Tommy Horvath.

Mike played high school hockey with Hanover Park, prior to the co-op with Whippany Park. He earned All-League honors his last three seasons and was named to the All-County and All-State teams. After high school, he moved on to the University of Notre Dame, playing for coach Lefty Smith.

Mike's son, Michael, got involved in hockey at a young age and Mike assisted with many of his son's Avalanche teams. He now coaches at both the North Jersey Avalanche and Bergen Catholic High School.