CHN Staff Report
Wayne Wilson, who coached RIT to more wins than anyone in program history, has announced his retirement, effective immediately.
“After 40 years of coaching, it’s bittersweet to announce my retirement. I don’t know if there is ever a good time to retire but I feel that it’s the right time for me,” Wilson said. “There are countless people to thank for making coaching college hockey such a great job for so many years. I truly enjoyed coming to work every day to push teams and players to reach their goals. I couldn’t have done that without great assistants and players who were all committed to being their best.”
The winningest coach in program history, Wilson transformed RIT into a national contender at the NCAA Division I level following the program’s ascension from the Division III ranks. He finishes his career 33rd in NCAA Men’s Hockey victories with a 471-337-82 record during his 26 seasons behind the bench.
Wilson took over the program in 1999 and led its transition to Division I in 2005. The Tigers went to the Frozen Four under Wilson in 2011.
Wilson won six AHA regular-season championships and four AHA tournament championships under Wilson.
“College Hockey is in a better place because of the impact Wayne Wilson had on it during his time at RIT,” former Army coach Brian Riley said. “He has had an amazing career, and his coaching record certainly is proof of that. Looking back on his career, it’s not just the wins that will stand out. More importantly, the lives he positively impacted will be his legacy. I am very grateful for his friendship and it has truly been an honor to coach against him all these years. I wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Matt Thomas, an RIT alum, is expected to take over as the new head coach, according to sources. That announcement will be made in the coming days.
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