FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The Fort Wayne Komets will have a new bench boss for the 2026-27 season after head coach Jesse Kallechy declined a contract offer to return to the team.

According to the Komets, Kallechy was offered a new long-term contract but chose to step away following discussions with his family. Associate head coach Olivier Legault and assistant coach Cory Melkert remain under contract for next season.

Kallechy, 36, joined the Komets in July 2023 after serving as an assistant coach with the Florida Everblades, where he helped the club win two Kelly Cup championships.

During his three seasons in Fort Wayne, Kallechy compiled a 121-69-20-6 record, leading the Komets to a Central Division championship and a trip to the Western Conference Finals this past season.

In a statement released by the team, Kallechy said the decision was based on what he and his family believe is best for their future.

“I am incredibly grateful to the players, coaching staff, hockey operations staff, ownership, and the many people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this organization special,” Kallechy said. “Most importantly, I want to thank the Komets fans for their unwavering support and passion throughout my time in Fort Wayne.”

According to the Komets, Kallechy leaves as the franchise’s ninth-winningest coach, finishing one victory behind Moose Lallo on the team’s all-time list.

General Manager David Franke said Kallechy played an important role in the organization’s success during the past three years and noted the team’s steady improvement under his leadership.

“The team improved every year Jesse was head coach, culminating in a run to the final four of the Kelly Cup playoffs,” Franke said in a statement released by the Komets.

The Komets said the next head coach will become the 31st coach in franchise history.

The team is preparing for its 75th consecutive season of professional hockey in Fort Wayne. Season tickets for the 2026-27 season are now on sale.