The Port Hawkesbury Strait Pirates have officially named Jesse MacLean as their new head coach. 

MacLean, has served as the Strait's interim head coach following the firing of Tim MacMillan mid-season.  He has inked a two-year contract.

MacLean who is 28 is originally from Whycocomagh, joins the Pirates organization after serving as the head coach of the Cabot Highlanders of the Nova Scotia Under-16 ‘AAA’ Hockey League for five seasons.  

"I'm incredibly excited to move into a permanent position with the Pirates and I’m looking forward to getting to work with their organization,” said MacLean in a team news release.  

“I can't wait to get to work on next year’s edition of the Pirates."

Pirates team president David Morgan said MacLean brings a well-honed hockey mind and the ability to connect well with the players. 

“I think we're really just starting to see what Jesse is capable of with the positive changes he brought to our organization this spring,” said Morgan. “Despite a disappointing playoff result, we saw the group come together as teammates and grow immensely under his leadership.”