St. Lawrence University announced today the promotion of Mike Hurlbut to associate men's hockey coach, filling the position left by Bob Prier.

Hurlbut has been an assistant for head coach Joe Marsh for nine seasons, starting first as a volunteer and moving to a full-time assistant three years ago when Chris Wells left to become the SLU women's head coach.

Hurlbut is a natural selection for the associate head coach. He was an All-American player for Joe Marsh, played on SLU's 1998 NCAA national runner-up team and went on to an NHL-level playing career.

"Mike has done a tremendous job for us since joining the staff as a volunteer," said Saint head coach Joe Marsh. "He has proven himself as a recruiter and helped bring in one of the best freshman classes we've ever had in last year's group and played a major role in their development as collegiate hockey players. His credentials as a pro and experience as a St. Lawrence player make him someone our players, particularly the defensemen, can learn a lot from.

"While we are obviously going to miss Bob and his contributions to the program, having Mike step into the associate head coaching position affords us a seamless transition in filling that position,. He knows what our program, and perhaps more important, knows what St. Lawrence is all about" Marsh added.

The search continues for an assistant coach to take Hurlbut's former post. The position is expected to be filled in the near future.

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