On April 8, 2006, prior to their game against the Washington Capitals, the Islanders presented Colley with the Bob Nystrom Award, an award given to the Islander "who best exemplifies leadership, hustle and dedication" as voted on by the fans. Colley was named head coach and director of hockey operations for Utah on September 5th, 2008. He replaced Jason Christie, who moved up to the AHL with the Chicago Wolves.