Jon Buttitta Set to Lead Twin City Thunderbirds Into 10th Season

A familiar face will lead the Twin City Thunderbirds when the puck drops on the franchise’s 10th season. Jon Buttitta is set to take over as head coach for the 2026-27 campaign after years as one of the organization’s most recognizable players and leaders.

Buttitta spent six seasons with the Thunderbirds as a player, served as captain for four years and worked as a player-assistant coach for the last three. He ranks among the top five in franchise history in goals (102), assists (201), points (303) and games played (308).

The organization also elevated current forward Zach White to player-assistant coach, while former Thunderbirds defenseman Tucker Firth joined the hockey operations staff as a Canadian scout.

Buttitta replaces Steve Harrison and will now be responsible for guiding the next chapter of professional hockey in Winston-Salem as Twin City prepares for the 2026-27 FPHL season.