Alaska-Anchorage assistant coach Jindra leaving for ‘other professional opportunities’

Alaska-Anchorage announced Tuesday that assistant coach T.J. Jindra is leaving the Seawolves’ program after four seasons to pursue other professional opportunities in the Lower 48.

Jindra was an integral part of the UAA staff under current head coach Matt Thomas and former head coach Dave Shyiak, variously heading the team’s recruiting and academic functions, in addition to on-ice instruction.

“T.J. has been an invaluable asset to Seawolf Hockey over the last four years,” said Thomas in a statement. “His dedication and hard work bridged a gap during a coaching change and he really helped elevate the program during his time here. Our student-athletes benefited from his knowledge and commitment to their academic and athletic experience. I know we will miss his passion for the program and wish him success in his future endeavors.”

“T.J. Jindra is an outstanding teacher, mentor, coach and role model,” added UAA athletic director Keith Hackett. “He has shown a great commitment to the student-athlete experience. We will miss him and wish him the best in his professional pursuits. Coach Thomas will begin the process of finding the right candidate for this important coaching staff position – someone who has a strong skill set and understands what coaching at the Division I level requires. We need to fill this void with a seasoned, experienced coach to keep moving the program forward.”