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Former Omaha coach Kemp selected as interim athletic director for Mavericks, will begin work July 19

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Mike Kemp was the first-ever Omaha hockey coach and has worked up the athletics administration ladder for the Mavericks (photo: Omaha Athletics).

Mike Kemp has been named Omaha’s interim athletic director and will assume the role on Monday, July 19, 2021.

“This is a bittersweet time for me,” said Kemp in a statement. “Trev Alberts has been a trusted friend and a great colleague for over 12 years. Together, we have gone through many challenging and thrilling experiences. He has left an indelible mark on Omaha athletics that will ink his legacy in our athletic lore.

“It is a great honor for me to be entrusted with the responsibility to lead this department,” added Kemp. “I want to thank President Carter, Chancellor Li and the Nebraska Board of Regents for this tremendous opportunity. I have spent my career here at UNO dedicated to creating opportunities for student-athletes, first as a coach, then as a sport administrator, and I feel blessed that my journey has led me here. In this new position, student-athletes will be the center of my efforts. With the help of the campus community, and the continued support of Omaha at large, we will be able to continue the tremendous growth that Omaha Athletics has experienced over the past 12 years. I look forward to the challenge.”

Kemp has been with Omaha since 1996 when he became the program’s first head hockey coach. He later rose to the associate athletic director position in 2009 which he held until 2019 when he was elevated to senior associate athletic director for events and facilities, overseeing the hockey program and serving as the general manager of Baxter Arena.

For his service to the conference and NCAA men’s hockey during a difficult 2020-21 season, Kemp was honored in April with the 2021 NCHC Commissioner’s Award. He is the first person to receive the NCHC Commissioner’s Award, which is presented to an individual who, through dedicated effort and service, has achieved a singularly distinguished accomplishment that has significantly enhanced the NCHC or a member institution during the current academic year.

“Mike Kemp has been an integral part of the NCHC since its formation,” said NCHC commissioner Josh Fenton. “He has made significant contributions toward our success over 10 years. We are fortunate to have someone in Mike who can step right into the interim AD role at Omaha and continue supporting the conference at a high level.”

“I would like to congratulate Mike on his appointment to interim AD,” added Mavericks hockey coach Mike Gabinet. “Mike is a friend, mentor and a great leader. I am very confident in his ability to continue to grow our athletic department. We are in good hands.”

During Kemp’s tenure at the helm of the Maverick hockey program, the team became a national leader in college hockey attendance, a tradition that continues today. Also during his coaching career, he served on the board of governors of the American Hockey Coaches Association, serving as a second vice-president from 2000 to 2003.

Kemp is currently a board member of the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame and serves as the chair of the six-member NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Committee.

In 2009, Kemp was inducted into the Omaha Hockey Hall of Fame. He was also inducted into the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame in 2013.

Diles returns to home state of Michigan, named new director of athletics at Lake Superior State

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DILES

Lake Superior State announced Friday that the university has selected veteran collegiate athletics executive and Michigan native David Diles as its new director of athletics after conducting a national search.

He succeeds Dr. David Paitson, who earlier resigned after four years to accept an assistant professor of sport management position at University of Indianapolis.

A four-time NCAA athletic director over the past 26 years, Diles comes to LSSU from the Virginia Military Institute, a Division I institution with 18 varsity sports.

“My wife, Suzanne, and I are thrilled to be returning to our home state and to be joining an institution that we believe in and a leadership team that made a profoundly positive impression. Both of our adult children, Matthew and daughter-in-law Heather, and Mitchell will be frequent visitors to Sault Ste. Marie,” said Diles in a statement. “President Dr. Rodney S. Hanley and Provost Dr. Lynn G. Gillette as chair of the search committee provided a clear and compelling vision of the vital role intercollegiate athletics can play in the advancement of the university. In addition, my familiarity with the GLIAC and the CCHA will allow for a quick transition.

“I’m honored to accept this appointment and looking forward to working with the department’s coaches, staff, and, most importantly, the student-athletes.”

Other career credits include director of athletics and chair of the physical education department at Case Western Reserve University (2005-13), athletic director at Eastern Michigan University (1999-2005), and VP/director of athletics at St. Bonaventure (1995-99).

Earlier jobs included assistant director of athletics at Auburn University (1991-94) and Central Michigan University (1989-91). He also served as director of athletics at Dexter Community Schools (1987-89). Diles was an assistant director of public relations for the NFL’s New York Jets in 1984.

An author of numerous articles in professional journals and member of numerous conference and NCAA committees, he earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master of sports administration from Ohio University and a doctorate of education from UMichigan.

“David Diles was easily our top candidate for many reasons,” said Hanley. “He is a highly experienced administrator with more than 25 years of work as a NCAA director of athletics and comprehensive leadership in institutional, conference, and national governance work in athletics. And he has considerable experience in growing programs, supervising capital projects, and fundraising. The list of his accomplishments is very lengthy, but perhaps the thing we were most impressed with is his record of ethical leadership at the various places he has served.”

Diles begins at LSSU on Aug. 2, 2021, and will oversee 11 Division II teams in the GLIAC and a Division I men’s hockey team in the CCHA.

Brausen, Sertich named assistant coaches for first-ever St. Thomas NCAA D-I women’s hockey team

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Bethany Brausen and Marty Sertich will serve as St. Thomas assistant coaches for the Tommies’ first-ever NCAA Division I team next season.

St. Thomas has announced the hiring of Bethany Brausen and Marty Sertich as assistant coaches with the Tommies preparing for their first season of Division I competition in 2021-22.

Brausen won two NCAA championships playing for Minnesota and also coached the last five seasons at Minnesota as an assistant.

A St. Thomas women’s assistant coach the last four seasons, Sertich has Division I and professional playing experience on the ice.

“I am incredibly excited to have Bethany and Marty join us as we move forward into a new chapter of the women’s hockey program here at St. Thomas,” first-year St. Thomas coach Joel Johnson said in a statement. “Both Bethany and Marty bring extensive experience along with unique gifts and talents on and off the ice that will be a great complement to our department and ultimately lead to a tremendous experience for our student athletes.

“The University of St. Thomas is committed to comprehensive excellence, and I can’t think of two better people who demonstrate that commitment.”

Brausen joined the Minnesota coaching staff in 2016-17 after competing for the Gophers from 2010 to 2014.

As a two-time captain at Minnesota, Brausen contributed to back-to-back national championship teams in 2012 and 2013, along with Minnesota’s national runner-up team in 2014 in her senior year. She helped the Gophers post a 139-17-5 (.879) record during her four-year career, including an NCAA-record 62-game winning streak. She played in 161 career games while recording 51 points on 16 goals and 35 assists.

She is currently pursuing her PhD in Organizational Leadership Policy and Development.

Sertich brings continuity plus his extensive hockey background as a recruiter, instructor and an elite player. He retired in 2016 after a 10-year professional playing career in Europe and in the AHL. He was college hockey’s Hobey Baker Award winner as a junior while at Colorado College in 2005, and also made All-America and was voted the WCHA Player of the Year in his Tiger career.

He was part of a St. Thomas staff that guided the 2018-19 Tommies to a late-season No. 1 national ranking, a school-record 25 victories, and a D-III Frozen Four appearance.

Vermont volunteer women’s hockey coach Willard hired as new lead assistant at Norwich

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WILLARD

Norwich has named Taylor Willard as the lead assistant coach for the women’s hockey team.

Willard replaces Mollie Fitzpatrick, who left to join the Boston University women’s coaching staff in June.

“I am beyond thrilled to have Taylor Willard join our staff,” Norwich head coach Sophie Leclerc said in a statement. “It was clear after getting to know Taylor through the hiring process that she has a deep passion for all aspects of the game, and will be an incredible addition to the Norwich community.

“The players and I are eager to learn from Taylor and her tremendous experiences as a player and coach at the Division I level.”

Willard comes to Norwich after serving the last two years as a volunteer assistant at Vermont, her alma mater.

A two-year captain, Willard played 145 games for Vermont, which is tied for the second-most in program history. Willard also ranks in the program’s top 10 for points (62, ninth), assists (41, tied for fourth), power-play goals (12, fourth) and most power-play goals in a single season (six, tied for fifth). Her point total is the most by a defenseman in program history.

“I am extremely honored to be given the opportunity to join such an established and successful program at Norwich University as an assistant coach,” Willard said. “I am thrilled at the opportunity to work for Sophie Leclerc. She is an amazing person and coach, and I’m excited to get to know and build relationships with our driven student-athletes. I cannot wait to experience and feel the support from the community, and become part of the Norwich family.

“I also want to thank the University of Vermont for everything they have given me over the years, and I hope that I can bring the knowledge I gained from both playing and coaching for that program to Norwich.”

Willard also won the 2018 Sarah Devens Award, which is presented annually to a player who “demonstrates leadership and commitment both on and off the ice.” The Devens Award is given as a joint honor between ECAC Hockey and Hockey East and aids a deserving student-athlete with a post-graduate scholarship of $10,000. Willard was the first Vermont player to win the prestigious award, and the first Hockey East player since 2006 to earn the honor.

After college, Willard spent the 2018-19 season playing professionally for the CWHL’s Montreal Canadiennes. She registered seven points (two goals, five assists) in 26 games as the Canadiennes went all the way to the Clarkson Cup.

Willard will begin her new role in early August, joining Leclerc and volunteer assistant coach Jon Guiffre.

Robert Morris, Pittsburgh College Hockey Foundation raising funds to reinstate Colonials’ men’s, women’s hockey teams

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Robert Morris University and the newly-formed Pittsburgh College Hockey Foundation have announced that they will partner together in an effort to raise sufficient funds to support the reinstatement of RMU’s NCAA Division I men’s and women’s hockey programs in time for the 2021-22 season.

The university announced May 26 that it would discontinue the two teams, effective immediately. The Pittsburgh College Hockey Foundation was formed soon after by alumni players and other RMU hockey supporters to raise money to revive the programs, and it has already secured a meaningful amount of gifts and pledges.

Representatives of the university and the foundation met Monday and agreed to work toward raising sufficient additional funds by July 31 to bring the teams back and position them to be financially sustainable for the foreseeable future – with an overall fundraising goal of $7 million over the next five years.

It was unknown what the fundraising goal is for July 31.

Anyone interested in making a contribution in support of RMU ice hockey should contact Logan Bittle with the Pittsburgh College Hockey Foundation at [email protected] or T.J. Brown with RMU Athletics at [email protected].

On Tuesday, ESPN’s John Buccigross tweeted that he was hearing both of the teams would be reinstated.

 

Colorado College tabs former Penn State women’s hockey ops director Demczuk for same gig with Tigers

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DEMCZUK

Chris Demczuk has been named the director of hockey operations at Colorado College, replacing Travis Culhane, who took the same job at Denver on Monday.

Demczuk served as the video analyst and assisted with team services for the AHL’s Stockton Heat the last two seasons. He led video operations, oversaw the team’s operational budget, coordinated team travel and assisted visiting teams with video and practice needs.

Demczuk joined the Heat prior to the 2019-20 season after six seasons with the Penn State women’s hockey team, including two seasons as director of operations. As the director of operations, Demczuk coordinated team travel and meals, led team video operations and assisted the coaching staff with pre-game and post-game preparation.

Demczuk was promoted to director of women’s hockey operations at Penn State after serving four years as a student assistant manager for the program.

He also served on Team USA’s staff for several tournaments over the past few seasons.

“We are excited to add Chris to our staff and the Tiger family,” first-year Tigers head coach Kris Mayotte said in a statement. “He brings incredible attention to detail, a remarkable ability to connect with people, and an innovative vision for the position that will help us push towards our goals.”

Graduating from Penn State in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, Demczuk is currently pursuing a master’s degree in sports industry management from Georgetown.

Brown women’s hockey completes staff under Ruzzi, names Simpson, Newkirk assistant coaches

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Justin Simpson and Makenna Newkirk are new assistant coaches at Brown.

Brown has announced the addition of Justin Simpson and Makenna Newkirk as assistant coaches for the Brown women’s hockey team.

Simpson comes to College Hill after serving the 2020-21 season as an assistant coach for RIT. Prior to coaching the Tigers, Simpson spent two seasons in the same role at Colby.

Prior to Colby, Simpson spent five seasons with the Providence women’s program, including four as the director of hockey operations. Prior to his operations role at PC, Simpson was an intern with the Friars during the 2012-13 campaign.

“I was fortunate to work with Justin early in his career and knew that when I had the opportunity to build my own staff, he would be my first call,” said first-year Brown coach Melanie Ruzzi in a news release. “His knowledge of the game and tireless work ethic will push all of us to be better. I am most thankful our program will benefit from Justin’s positive energy and care for the people around him.”

Newkirk was most recently a coach and assistant director at the North American Hockey Academy, where she transitioned the program from Vermont to Massachusetts. She managed all of the Under-16 team’s dynamics and worked with the Under-19 group during practice and games for two seasons.

Prior to the North American Hockey Academy, Newkirk was an assistant coach at Milton Academy for one season (2019-20) and was a marketing specialist and skill development coach for Eagles Elite Sports, LLC.

Newkirk starred at Boston College from 2015 to 2019, where she was a two-time captain and ranked fifth all-time in career points (73 goals, 116 assists, 189 points). She helped the Eagles appear in the NCAA national championship game and win two Hockey East championships and three Beanpots. She was voted the conference’s Best Defensive Forward in 2019 and was named Rookie of the Year in 2016.

Following her stellar career with the Eagles, Newkirk competed for USA Hockey and attended three national team festivals. She was a member of the U.S. Under-22 National Team in 2016 and was an invitee to the Olympic tryouts for the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics. Newkirk additionally played two seasons in the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association in the New Hampshire Region and was drafted seventh overall in the 2019 NWHL Draft.

“Makenna brings a champion’s mentality to our program after having an incredibly successful playing career at Boston College and opportunities with the USA National Team,” said Ruzzi. “Her passion for developing student-athletes on and off the ice will raise the individual skill of our players and help to strengthen the culture and leadership within the program.”

Princeton adds former U.S. Olympian, Harvard grad Picard to women’s hockey coaching staff

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Shelly Picard has a decorated playing background with USA Hockey national women’s teams (photo: USA Hockey).

A Team USA veteran, Olympic silver medalist and four-time IIHF World Champion, Shelly Picard has joined the Princeton women’s hockey staff as an assistant coach.

Picard fills the opening created when Melanie Ruzzi became the head coach at Brown.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Shelly to our coaching staff at Princeton,” said Princeton head coach Cara Morey in a statement. “Shelly is not only a decorated U.S. Olympian, but she also has strong ties to the Ivy League and an extensive coaching resume across all age groups. Shelly understands what it takes to compete at the highest level while being a student-athlete in the Ivy League. She has a wealth of experience and knowledge to share with our Princeton players and staff. I can’t wait for her to get started.”

Picard, a blueliner, was a member of the U.S.’s silver medal-winning team at the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia, and Picard has been a part of five U.S. entries in the IIHF Women’s World Championships, most recently winning her fourth gold medal in 2019 in Finland.

“Thank you to the Princeton athletic department for giving me the opportunity to join this incredible coaching staff and team,” Picard said. “This group has high expectations and I can’t wait to dive in and get to work.”

Picard, a Harvard alum, played four seasons for the Crimson between 2011 and 2016 and was a three-time All-Ivy League pick, earning first-team honors in 2016, second-team honors in 2015, and honorable mention in 2013. She earned third-team All-ECAC Hockey recognition in 2013, was a 2016 ECAC Hockey All-Tournament Team member. As of her hiring at Princeton, Picard ranked in the top 50 on Harvard’s career assist list, with 45 to go with eight goals for 53 career points.

Picard was a part of three NCAA tournament teams at Harvard, including helping the Crimson reach the championship game in 2015.

Following her time at Harvard, Picard played for the NWHL’s Metropolitan Riveters from 2016 to 2019, helping the team win the league title in 2018, before serving as a deputy commissioner with the league until March 2021.

She worked as a coach with the New Jersey Colonials youth program for three years beginning in 2018, and Picard has also given her time to Hockey in New Jersey, a group that provides opportunities for youth players to compete free of charge, and to RISE, the Ross Initiative in Sports and Equality, as a fellow with the organization.

Picard was an Anthropology major during her time at Harvard.

Minnesota Duluth women’s hockey director of operations Bryant leaves Bulldogs for USA Hockey role

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Minnesota Duluth coach Maura Crowell and director of hockey operations Nick Bryant celebrate USA Hockey success after a recent tournament (photo: UMD Athletics).

Nick Bryant, who has served as Minnesota Duluth’s women’s hockey director of operations and equipment for the past four seasons, will permanently join USA Hockey as the hockey operations and event manager for the women’s national team ahead of the 2022 Beijing Olympics.

“My time here with UMD women’s hockey has had a tremendous impact on my life,” said Bryant in a news release. “From starting my career in Duluth, to playing in Hockey Day Minnesota, and advancing to the Frozen Four this past year, I have made memories that will last a lifetime – both on and off the ice. As one chapter of my life comes to an end, another one is just about to begin, and I look forward to what lies ahead with Team USA. Bulldog Country will always have a special place in my heart, and once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog.”

While at UMD, Bryant’s crowning achievement was helping the Bulldogs get back into the NCAA Frozen Four in 2021. Bryant, who earned an MBA from St. Scholastica in 2019, also played a part in Hockey Day Minnesota 2018, bringing back UMD retro jerseys and was on the hockey commissioner’s task force for video exchange in 2021.

“Nick has been an important member of our staff during his time with the women’s hockey program,” said UMD head coach Maura Crowell. “His passion for hockey and his willingness to go above and beyond are qualities that made him an asset to both our program and our university. I wish Nick all the best as he moves forward in his career.”

In addition, Bryant has built a strong USA Hockey resume. He was named to the 2020 and 2021 Women’s World Championship staff under USA Hockey operations, and was the equipment manager on the 2020 Under-18 World Championship squad in Bratislava, Slovakia. Bryant also worked multiple USA Hockey Development Camps, in hockey operations during the 2019-20 season, and was the equipment manager for both the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons.

Bryant graduated from Minnesota State with degrees in both Business Management and Nonprofit Leadership.

Michigan State receives $1.5 million donation from Harpell family for Munn Ice Arena expansion

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Munn Ice Arena has been home to the Michigan State hockey team since 1974 (photo: Michigan State Athletics).

Building on the rich tradition of Michigan State ice hockey and expanding on its future, the school announced a $1.5 million gift to the Munn Ice Arena expansion project from former Spartans hockey player Gary Harpell and his wife Joanne Harpell.

“This generous gift from the Harpells gives a vital assist to Spartan Hockey for the ongoing and long-awaited renovation of one of MSU’s most storied sports facilities,” said MSU president Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D., in a statement “Gary’s experience is a great example of the important influence being a student-athlete has had on many Spartans’ lives.”

Gary, a 1982 grad, played on the Spartans hockey team from 1978 to 1982 for legendary coaches Amo Bessone and Ron Mason.

“Walking on and making the team in 1978 was the fulfilment of many, many years of dreaming, and a goal of mine to play D-I college hockey,” he said. “I proved to myself that if I set my mind to something, I could really achieve it. I want that for everybody that comes through Michigan State.

“Making that team in 1978 was the springboard for me to be able to take risks. It gave me the confidence that I could go on and do pretty much whatever I wanted to do. I used it in my professional life, in my personal life, it had a profound effect on me.”

In addition to his own contributions to the facility, Gary has volunteered his time as part of a committee of fellow Spartan hockey alumni who are helping drum up support to increase fundraising efforts for addition.

The renovation started in 2019, was paused in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is resuming this summer.

The $26.2 million, 35,000-square-foot facility will dramatically improve the Big Ten’s second-oldest ice arena (built in 1974) by elevating many areas from ice level to above ground, including a weight room, training room, film room, offices, conference rooms and administrative spaces. Fans will be welcomed through a new “front door” entrance on the south end, complete with an MSU hockey hall of history.

“For me, investing in the Munn renovation project has been a little bit like taking a slap shot off the ankle to save the game,” Gary said. “It hurt a bit when I first blocked the shot — when I first made the commitment. But as time goes on, the pain subsides, and what you’re left with is this incredible feeling. It’s indescribable, the amount of pride that I have in what’s happening at Michigan State and in the hockey program.”

To date, nearly $17 million has been raised for the expansion project. The Harpells, along with five other donors, including Tom and Lupe Izzo and the Forest Akers Trust, have committed over $1 million each to the facility. In all, 89 donors have stepped up with gifts of $10,000 or more.

“MSU athletics thanks Gary and Joanne for their commitment to excellence and generous philanthropy,” said Bill Beekman, vice president and director of athletics. “Michigan State hockey holds a very special place in the hearts of many Spartans who will recall the days in which MSU hockey was the hardest ticket to get on a Friday and Saturday evening. With this addition, we aim to provide our hockey program what it needs to recruit elite-level student-athletes on and off the ice, while consistently competing for Big Ten championships in front of full capacity crowds at Munn.”

Danton Cole, head coach of MSU Hockey, added, “Gary made a great impact on Michigan State as a student-athlete. He played for both Coach Bessone and Coach Mason and was a large part of that successful transition between two legendary coaches. Gary and his wife, Joanne, have now left a lasting impression on another major transition for Spartan Hockey with a tremendous donation to the Munn Renovation Fund. This is the most significant construction project for our program since the opening of Munn Ice Arena and with the leadership and benevolence of Gary and Joanne, we are excited to see it become a reality and provide an even better place for our Spartans to grow.”

Naming opportunities for donors and fans remain available. For more information, visit spartanfund.net or call 517-432-4610.

Culhane leaves director of hockey operations job at Colorado College for same role at Denver

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CULHANE

Denver has named Travis Culhane its director of hockey operations.

“We are excited to welcome Travis Culhane and his fiancé Michelle to the Pioneer hockey family,” DU coach Davis Carle said in a statement. “Travis brings an elite ability to connect with people, great organizational skills and a vast knowledge base to execute the hockey operations of our program.”

Culhane completed his second season as the director of hockey operations at Colorado College in 2020-21. Prior to his time at CC, Culhane was in the same role at Western Michigan in 2018-19 after assisting in operations as a student at WMU beginning in 2015.

“I am very excited to join the University of Denver hockey program,” Culhane said. “Joining a team with a championship culture and athletic excellence at a premiere institution is an honor. I want to thank David Carle and the rest of the staff for the opportunity, and I cannot wait to get going. I’m excited to see what this team can accomplish.”

The Kalamazoo, Mich., native is the son of WMU Hockey Ring of Honor member and former Bronco defenseman and head coach Jim Culhane.

Canisius names Holy Cross assistant coach Mobley to same role with Golden Griffins

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MOBLEY

Canisius has announced the addition of Max Mobley as an assistant coach.

“Max is a terrific addition to our staff,” Canisius head coach Trevor Large said in a statement. “He is passionate, professional and has the positive energy to enhance our current players’ development as well as the experience to drive our recruiting efforts. Max brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience as a player and coach at the Division I level. I am excited for our staff and players to bring such a quality person and coach to our program.”

Mobley makes his way to Canisius after spending two seasons as an assistant coach at Holy Cross.

“I’m extremely excited to join the Canisius Hockey staff and want to thank Coach Large for giving me this opportunity,” Mobley said. “I have the utmost respect for Trevor, both as a coach and as a person. He’s a great hockey mind as well as a genuine person, invested in developing relationships with players – both past and present. It was a very easy decision for me to join the Golden Griffins.

“Canisius has developed a great reputation of consistently competing as one of the top teams in Atlantic Hockey, and I’m looking forward to continuing the push towards winning conference championships and competing in the national tournament. I know this group is hungry to accomplish both goals, so I can’t wait to get started.”

Before his stint at Holy Cross, Mobley spent the 2018-19 season as a volunteer coach at Notre Dame. Prior to his time in South Bend, Mobley worked for four seasons at Hamilton (2014-18) as an assistant coach.

Mobley began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant at his alma mater, St. Lawrence, during the 2013-14 season.

As a four-year letter-winner with the Saints from 2008 to 2012, Mobley earned the ECAC Student-Athlete award three times during his collegiate career (2010, 2011, 2012). He went on to play professionally in the ECHL and SPHL after graduating with a history degree from St. Lawrence in 2012.

Oswego removes interim tag, names Digby new coach for Lakers’ women’s hockey team

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DIGBY

Oswego has announced that Mark Digby has been named head coach of the women’s hockey team.

Digby was the associate head coach for the team during the 2019-20 season and served as interim head coach the past year, taking over for Diane Dillon in June 2020.

“This is a special day for me and my family,” said Digby in a statement. “I am very appreciative and honored to be named the second head coach in the modern era of Oswego women’s hockey. I love the progress we have made in my two seasons with the program, and I’m excited to see where we can go in the future.”

“Mark has been an integral member of the Oswego community for more than ten years,” added Dr. Mary Toale, Oswego’s acting VP for student affairs. “His coaching and service to the community is impactful and his commitment to holistic student success is inspirational. We are thrilled to appoint Mark as the women’s ice hockey head coach.”

Throughout the pandemic, Digby has remained focused on both the needs of his student-athletes and the campus community. He met weekly with players to check in and build relationships, and recruited eight student-athletes for next season. Digby continued the tradition of fostering academic success, with five players making the President’s List and five attaining Deans’ List status. Eight players also made the SUNYAC Honor Roll.

He programmed guest speakers, leadership seminars and culture-building activities to increase cohesion and retention on the team. Digby chaired the State Employees Federated Appeal Teddy Bear Toss (which collected toys for local children), volunteered for the COVID hotline and testing center, and served as a Quarantine/Isolation Buddy.

Digby was hired as the assistant coach at Oswego in August 2010. During his time as the assistant men’s coach, the team reached six NCAA tournaments, four Frozen Four appearances and competed for the national championship twice.

Prior to Oswego, Digby was an assistant men’s coach at his alma mater, Brockport (2006-10), where he earned his B.S. in Physical Education (2005) and M.S. in Recreation Management (2008).

Holy Cross names Sommer, Sorenson new assistants, Butler volunteer assistant, Hailer director of hockey operations

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Holy Cross has announced four new members of first-year head coach Bill Riga’s coaching staff.

Joining Riga during his first season will be assistant coaches Castan Sommer and Eric Sorenson, volunteer assistant coach Bobby Butler, and director of operations Blake Hailer.

Sommer rejoins the Crusaders as an assistant coach after playing for the team from 2012 to 2016. During his time at Holy Cross, Sommer helped the team to 66 victories, recording 29 goals and 35 assists for 64 points over his four seasons in Worcester.

Since graduating in 2016, Sommer has spent time as a skating coach at the San Jose Sharks Development Camp and, more recently, served as an assistant coach for the WHL’s Seattle Thunderbirds.

“Castan will bring a variety of experiences from his background,” Riga said. “Having coached at a high level in the WHL, he will have an immediate impact on our program on the ice. He has a background growing up in the pro hockey environment and has countless ties in key areas for recruiting. Then, add on the fact that he is a Holy Cross Hockey alum, and it just made him the perfect fit for the program.”

Sorenson will serve as an assistant coach at Holy Cross after coming from Rivier, where he was set to be the team’s first head coach, responsible for leading the launch of the young program. He was hired by Rivier in Nov. 2020.

Before Rivier, Sorenson served as an assistant coach at Williams from 2018 to 2020. Sorenson played college hockey as a goaltender at Western New England from 2010 to 2014. He holds the WNE program records for career wins, saves, and shutouts.

“Eric is a highly respected young coach with a versatile skill set,” Riga said. “He has experience recruiting at a competitive academic school, coaching and recruiting goaltenders and is excellent with video and game planning. He was a standout in the interview process and will be a great asset to our players.”

Butler joins the staff as a volunteer assistant coach and will bring a wealth of high-level experience to the Crusaders having played in both the NHL and AHL. Butler has seen time with the Ottawa Senators, New Jersey Devils, Nashville Predators, and Florida Panthers organizations. A three-time AHL All-Star, Butler most recently played with the Hartford Wolfpack during the 2018-19 season. He was also a part of the 2018 U.S. Olympic roster. Butler played for New Hampshire from 2006 to 2010 where he was named a First Team All-American, Hockey East Player of the Year, and Walter Brown Award winner in 2010.

“Bobby has NHL and Olympic experience that will have a tremendous impact on our forwards on day one,” Riga said. “His background in teaching at his hockey camps and clinics in the Worcester area give us great resources as well. This is home for him and he is highly respected in the hockey world. We are fortunate to have him join our staff.”

A 2021 graduate of Holy Cross, Hailer served as the team manager during his four years of undergrad in Worcester and will bring a great deal of familiarity and experience into his new role.

“Blake has been with the program for some time now and has experience handling the operations, video and travel logistics for the team, and will now be doing so on a full-time basis,” Riga said. “As an HC alum, his perspective on Holy Cross and its culture will have big dividends for us. He is excellent with the video system and breakdown and will have a lot of responsibility in that regard.”

Manastersky leaves Curry head coaching position, joins Union as new assistant coach

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TJ Manastersky (middle) has been behind the Curry bench since the 2012-13 season (photo: Curry Athletics).

TJ Manastersky has been named an assistant men’s hockey coach at Union.

“I am grateful to (Union head coach) Rick Bennett for the opportunity to coach at Union College,” Manastersky said in a statement. “I am thrilled to join a storied hockey program at an elite institution, and I am eager to get to work with Coach Bennett, Coach Ronan, and the exemplary student-athletes.”

“Our program is excited to announce TJ as the newest addition to the men’s hockey coaching staff,” added Bennett. “TJ’s passion and ability to connect with student-athletes was evident in the hiring process. His nine years of head coaching experience at Curry College and his numerous coaching accolades during that time speak volumes about him as a person and a coach. TJ is widely respected in the college hockey community and it will be an honor to work with him and John Ronan this upcoming season.”

Manastersky comes to Union following nine years as the head men’s hockey coach at Curry. During his time there, he led the Colonels to a 113-82-19 record, berths in all four Commonwealth Coast Conference tournaments, and seven postseason appearances in eight seasons overall. He was the youngest coach in the NCAA when hired before the 2012-13 season.

He was named CCC Coach of the Year in 2018-19, when he guided the Colonels to a 16-7-3 record, which included a 13-2-1 mark in the final 16 games of the regular season and a win at the season-opening Buffalo State tournament.

“TJ has done a great job here at Curry College,” said Curry athletic director Vinnie Eruzione. “His dedication and passion, not only for the sport of ice hockey, but for the immediate and future success of his ice hockey student-athletes was outstanding. His teams excelled not only on the ice, but just as importantly off the ice, in the community, and in the classroom. I wish TJ nothing but success as he moves on in his professional and personal life.”

Prior to his time with Curry, Manastersky spent three years as an assistant at Fredonia and two years at Canisius.

Manastersky played collegiately at Oswego and graduated in 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in athletic coaching. He also earned a master’s of science in health and physical education from Canisius in 2009.

After five seasons, Castleton coach Silengo hands in resignation, intends to ‘pursue other opportunities’

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SILENGO

After five seasons as the head coach of the Castleton men’s team, Bill Silengo has stepped down from the position “to pursue other opportunities,” according to a news release.

Silengo guided Castleton to a 28-67-16 record in the New England Hockey Conference during his tenure. He led Castleton to an 11-10-6 mark and an appearance in the NEHC semifinals in 2016-17, and made the NEHC postseason in three of the four years in which the league ran the tournament.

“It has been an honor to be the head coach at Castleton for the past five seasons,” said Silengo in a statement. “I would like to thank all of the great assistant coaches, trainers, administration and staff I have worked with for their hard work and dedication to the program. I would also like to thank our Blue Line Club for their unwavering commitment to the players. Most importantly, however, I want to thank our current and former players. These young men represented the hockey program, the university and the town of Castleton with pride and class. They excelled on the ice, in the classroom and in the community. It was a privilege to coach them.”

“Bill consistently recruited high-character individuals to Castleton, as shown in results on the ice and in the classroom,” added Castleton associate dean for athletics and recreation Deanna Tyson. “I wish him the best of luck as he moves on to the next step in his career.”

A national search for a new coach will begin immediately.

WCHA formally announces closure of men’s college hockey conference, effective July 1, 2021

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Representatives of the University of Alaska Anchorage and the University of Alaska Fairbanks recently voted to cease operations of the WCHA men’s league as a result of the departure of eight league members over the last two years.

The vote to cease all men’s league operations became effective July 1, 2021.

“I am honored and grateful to have had the special opportunity to lead the WCHA these past seven-plus years,” said Bill Robertson, who served as WCHA commissioner since 2014. “I consider my time with college hockey’s oldest and most distinguished conference one of the highlights of my sports career. As we mark the end of an era of college hockey, I wish the best to all ten outgoing institutions and all individuals who have contributed to the operations of the conference.”

“I want to thank the men’s league staff for their hard work and professionalism during the past two years of operations. In particular, Commissioner Bill Robertson led the men’s league through challenging times and is a champion for collegiate hockey,” added Dr. Dan White, chancellor of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. “We also want to lend our support to the WCHA women’s league as they continue the legacy of the WCHA. At UAA and UAF, we look forward to continuing our long histories of Division I hockey.”

As a result of the decision, Alaska Fairbanks will compete as an independent program during the 2021-22 season. Alaska Anchorage will not compete next season as the university works to reinstate its men’s ice hockey program after announcing in late 2020 that it was dropping the sport.

The dissolution decision comes following the departure of seven WCHA programs – Bemidji State, Bowling Green, Ferris State, Lake Superior State, Michigan Tech, Minnesota State and Northern Michigan – for the revived CCHA next season. Alabama Huntsville was granted their request to depart the league earlier this summer.

The WCHA will continue to sponsor NCAA D-I women’s hockey.

Mercyhurst announces extensions for men’s hockey coach Gotkin, women’s hockey coach Sisti

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Longtime Mercyhurst coaches Rick Gotkin and Michael Sisti will be back behind their respective benches in 2021-22 (photos: Mercyhurst Athletics).

Mercyhurst announced this week contract extensions for men’s hockey head coach Rick Gotkin and women’s hockey head coach Michael Sisti.

“It is an exciting time for Mercyhurst Athletics as we prepare to resume normal operations this fall, while two opening two facilities that will rank among the best in our region,” said Mercyhurst director of athletics Brad Davis, who was also extended along with women’s basketball coach Brooklyn Kohlheim. “The commitment from the university with this wave of extensions is an affirmation of the work we are doing as a department as well as that of these individuals.”

Gotkin is set to start his 34th season behind the bench for the Lakers. One of the winningest coaches in college hockey history, Gotkin has recorded 572 career victories, six NCAA tournament appearances and five league championships. In 2020-21, the Lakers went 8-12-1 overall (7-8-1 Atlantic Hockey).

“For the past 33 years, I have had the privilege of being part of tremendous growth and success with the men’s ice hockey program at Mercyhurst University,” said Gotkin. “Mentoring and coaching our student-athletes and watching their success both on and off the ice has been a very rewarding experience for me. I would like to thank the university’s leadership for this extension. I am excited to have the opportunity to continue to lead the successful tradition of the hockey program. ”

Sisti enters his 23rd season and is the only head coach in Mercyhurst women’s hockey history. Last season saw Sisti become just the second Division I women’s hockey coach to reach the 500-win plateau. Under Sisti, Mercyhurst has won 17 regular-season conference championships, 15 conference tournament championships and had a streak of 10 consecutive NCAA tournament appearances from 2004 to 2013.

“Over the years, I have been fortunate to have so much support from many people on campus and in the Erie community,” said Sisti. “We have built something very special here at Mercyhurst University and I’ve had terrific players and coaches who helped us achieve great success. I want to welcome President Getz to our university and thank Brad Davis, Laura Zirkle, our board of trustees, and our administration for their continued support of myself and the Mercyhurst women’s ice hockey program. We are looking forward to this season with great excitement. I am thankful to continue to do what I love in Erie and at this wonderful university.”

Former Boston University captains Pandolfo, Friedman join Terriers’ coaching staff; BU also adds Daccord (goaltending), Sherman (video)

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Two former Boston University captains and teammates have joined the Terriers’ staff as Jay Pandolfo has been named the Terriers’ associate head coach and Doug Friedman has been hired as the director of hockey operations.

The team has also added Brian Daccord as goaltending coach and Jon Sherman as video coordinator.

Pandolfo, Friedman and Daccord have over 30 years of combined experience in the NHL as players and coaches and Sherman is a BU graduate student who recently finished a two-year coaching internship with the Washington Capitals.

“This is a great day for our program,” said BU head coach Albie O’Connell in a statement. “It’s an honor to welcome back two captains from our program’s incredible run in the 1990s who have excelled at all levels of hockey. Jay and Doug are great examples of the type of players and people that BU hockey prides itself on. We are also thrilled to add someone of Brian’s caliber and experience to our coaching staff. Jon has also spent time in the NHL and will be a great boost to our video operations.”

Pandolfo recently completed his fifth season as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins.

Drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the second round (32nd overall) in the 1993 NHL Draft, Pandolfo played 899 NHL games with New Jersey, the New York Islanders and Boston and had career NHL totals of 100 goals, 126 assists and 226 points. He won two Stanley Cup championships with the Devils in 2000 and 2003 and formally retired as a player in January 2014 after playing his last season with Boston in 2012-13.

A standout for the Terriers during his four-year collegiate career, Pandolfo recorded 169 points (79 goals, 90 assists). He was a 1996 Hobey Baker Award finalist as a senior after recording 67 points (38g, 29a) and was an instrumental part of the Terriers’ 1995 national championship while helping lead the Terriers to four straight Frozen Fours, two Beanpot titles and two Hockey East championships.

“Jay is from one of the all-time great families who have been a part of BU hockey and we are thrilled to welcome him back,” said O’Connell. “He had a terrific career as a Terrier and then went on to play and coach at the peak of professional hockey. Through our recent talks, it’s clear that Jay shares the same vision and direction for our program. He was an outstanding captain my freshman year and I’m really looking forward to working with him.”

Friedman, a 1994 graduate of BU, returns to Commonwealth Avenue after serving as the program director and head coach of the USPHL’s Twin City Thunder.

Selected by the Quebec Nordiques in the 11th round (222nd overall) of the 1993 NHL Draft, Friedman played seven seasons of professional hockey, skating for the Edmonton Oilers and Nashville Predators of the NHL in addition to stints with four AHL squads and the Milwaukee Admirals of the IHL. Friedman won the 1997 Calder Cup as an alternate captain of the Hershey Bears and was also an assistant captain with Milwaukee, Cornwall Aces, Hamilton Bulldogs, Worcester Ice Cats and Kentucky Thoroughblades.

Friedman was a four-year standout for BU, leading the Terriers to three Frozen Fours and two appearances in the national title game. He captained the Terriers to the title game in 1994 after being named as the top collegiate defenseman in New England. Friedman also won two Beanpots and two Hockey East championships with BU.

“Doug is another former Terrier great as both a player and a person,” said O’Connell. “After reaching the NHL as player, he returned to the sport a decade ago and has had some great experience along the way, most recently in the USPHL. His skill set and work ethic will enhance our program in many ways and the BU community will be excited to get yet another former captain on staff.”

Daccord joins BU after spending the past season as the special assistant to the general manager/director of goaltending operations for the Arizona Coyotes. That stint came after five seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs in their scouting and player development departments. Prior to joining the Leafs, Daccord was the goaltending coach for Adler Mannheim in the DEL for six seasons, winning the German championship in 2014-2015 He also served as the goaltending coach for the Bruins for two seasons from 2000 to 2002.

A 1987 Merrimack graduate, Daccord later earned a master’s degree in sport management from the United States Sports Academy. Upon graduation, Daccord played seven seasons in the Swiss National “A” League. He also served as an assistant coach at his alma mater for two seasons as well as one season as an assistant at Saint Anselm before he joined the Bruins.

“Brian has been involved in every level of hockey – playing, coaching, parenting and in business – and is one of the most organized and professional people I have come across in our sport,” said O’Connell. “Having Brian come on board is a huge win for our goalies and our entire program.”

Sherman graduated from Indiana University in 2018 and served as a student volunteer coach for the Hoosiers’ ACHA program. He spent the 2017-18 season with the USHL’s Waterloo Black Hawks as their hockey operations assistant before moving on to the Capitals, where he was involved with all aspects of team video from 2018 to 2020.

“Jon came highly recommended from the Capitals’ organization and his experience with video at the NHL level will undoubtedly be a huge asset for our team,” said O’Connell.”

NCHC announces new chairs for conference board of directors, athletic council, coaches

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With the calendar flipping to July, the NCHC has officially transitioned to new chairs for its board of directors, athletic council and coaches.

North Dakota president Dr. Andrew Armacost takes over as the chair of the NCHC Board of Directors and will serve in that role for the next two seasons through the 2022-23 campaign. He replaces Miami president Dr. Greg Crawford, who completed his term from 2019-21.

In addition to Dr. Armacost’s new role on the board, NCHC bylaws require the roles of vice chair, treasurer and secretary be filled with board members. St. Cloud State president Dr. Robbyn Wacker will serve as vice chair, Denver chancellor Dr. Jeremy Haefner will serve as treasurer and Western Michigan president Dr. Ed Montgomery will remain as the secretary.

The NCHC Board of Directors is represented by each member institution’s president or chancellor. The chair leads the board of directors and has a two-year rotation. The board has general oversight on all conference decisions, with specific attention to membership, financial matters, major conference contracts, and commissioner employment.

On the NCHC Athletic Council, which is represented by each member institution’s director of athletics, SCSU’s Heather Weems moves into the role of chair for the 2021-22 season. She replaces North Dakota’s Bill Chaves, who moves to past chair after serving as chair during the 2020-21 campaign. Western Michigan’s Kathy Beauregard will serve as vice chair of the athletic council during the upcoming season.

The athletic council has oversight on general, day-to-day conference policy decisions. The chair leads the athletic council and has an annual rotation, with the vice chair next in succession.

Denver head coach David Carle takes over as chair of the NCHC coaches for 2021-22. He replaces SCSU head coach Brett Larson, who served in that role this past season. The chair of the coaches is an annual rotation and represents the conference in national meetings, while also serving as a liaison between the coaches and conference office.

The chair of the faculty athletics representatives remains Omaha professor Dr. Bill Wakefield, who will complete his term as chair after the 2021-22 season. The chair of the FARs is a two-year position and represents the FARs on the NCHC Athletic Council, while also serving as the liaison between the FARs and the conference office.

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