Russell resigns as MTU head coach

Michigan Tech Press Release

Michigan Tech announced Wednesday that head coach Jamie Russell has resigned his position, effective immediately.

Russell recently completed his eighth season behind the Tech bench.

"Jamie is a person of great integrity, and he has worked hard to fulfill the mission of our athletic department and university," said Michigan Tech AD Suzanne Sanregret. "We wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

Russell posted a 70-197-37 record with the Huskies after being named to the position May 7, 2003. He had his best season in 2006-07 when Tech went 18-17-5 and earned a trip to the WCHA Final Five. The Huskies compiled a 4-30-4 record this season, which concluded last weekend in a first-round WCHA playoff loss at No. 1-ranked North Dakota.

During Russell's tenure, Tech had one Hobey Baker finalist, two All-Americans, five All-WCHA selections, 60 WCHA All-Academic Team selections and 16 WCHA Scholar-Athletes.

"I will really miss the Tech hockey players who have cared so much and worked so hard," said Russell. "It has been a privilege working with this team, and I wish them every success in the years to come.

"I want to thank all the people in the community who were so loyal to the Huskies -- through the good times and through the tougher times when we faced numerous injuries and the loss of some outstanding new recruits who were not to able to make it all the way to Tech ice. My family and I have enjoyed being a part of this community and will be saddened to leave, but look forward to the adventures ahead."

In addition to the departure of Russell, Sanregret announced that assistant coach Pat Mikesch will not return. His contract was not renewed. Mikesch spent the last seven years as an assistant under Russell.

The search for Michigan Tech's 21st head hockey coach will begin immediately.

"Our goal is to be successful in all aspects of the program-on and off the ice," said Sanregret. "A quality hockey program is a valued part of Michigan Tech's history, and we will work diligently to re-establish our position."

Photo by Matt Mackinder/MiCHO