Mason City, IA – North Iowa is excited to welcome Jason ‘Kermit’ Windhorn back to Mason City as an Assistant Coach to the Mason City Toros as well as a key member to the organization’s front office. Kermit’s extensive experience and deep connection to the organization position him as an invaluable asset in his new roles.
Kermit originally joined the North Iowa Bulls front office in 2017 as their Digital Media Manager, overseeing all media and creative efforts before pursuing a career in collegiate athletics. Over the years, he hasn’t ventured too far away from the Green and Blue, continually assisting in creative and coaching efforts, growing the organization’s dominance both on and off the ice.
Kermit will join Head Coach Mark Hicks behind the bench as an Assistant Coach with the Mason City Toros. The former netminder from Lakeville, MN brings experience coaching from the high school (Dodge County, MSHSL), junior (Austin Ice Bats, NA3HL), and collegiate (Winona State University, ACHA) level, showcasing his strong understanding and passion for the game.
“I am excited to be returning to the bench after taking some time off, especially with such a great organization as the Toros,” said Kermit. “I’m excited to be a part of such a great coaching staff that is able to bring in talented and dedicated players.”
“I have had the pleasure of getting to know Kerm throughout the years and his knowledge of the game, as well as being a great individual to have on our staff has me very excited for this season,” Head Coach Mark Hicks adds.
Alongside his coaching duties, Kermit will join the front office in a role that will help lead the organization’s sales, marketing, creative, and team operations staff. In between his time in Mason City, Kermit served in the marketing and creative offices of the San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and the Minnesota Twins (MLB). His experience is highlighted by leading the Spurs’ G League affiliate, the Austin Spurs, efforts that captured the leagues ‘Promotion of the Year’ award during their 2022-23 campaign.
“There is something special about Mason City, and when the opportunity came forward to be a part of that community, especially in a role that allows me to express my passion and talents for bringing fans together gets me excited for this season” Kermit said when asked about his thoughts on joining the front office.
“Kermit’s dedication to the North Iowa organization has been evident every time he is in Mason City,” said Nick Bruneteau, Head Coach of the North Iowa Bulls. “His coaching knowledge, creativity, and understanding of our team dynamics will be pivotal in his dual role. We are excited to have him back on the bench and helping lead in our front office.”
As North Iowa continues to build on their legacy, Kermit’s return to coaching and expanded leadership role within the organization marks an exciting step forward. His appointment showcases the Bulls’ commitment to fostering talent both on the ice and behind the scenes.
You can catch Kermit behind the bench for the first time when the Toros take on one of the league’s newest members, the Minnesota Wilderness, at the Mason City Arena on September 13th, tickets can be found HERE. Don’t forget to get your tickets to the North Iowa Bulls home opener on September 21st, tickets can be purchased HERE.