Marsh to Take Medical Leave
St. Lawrence University men's ice hockey head coach Joe Marsh
has announced his intention to take an indefinite medical leave
from his coaching position effective immediately. "I think it is
best for the team that I step aside until this medical problem is
taken care of," said Marsh.
Marsh, in his 27th season as Saint coach, will turn the coaching
duties over to Mike Hurlbut and Greg Carvel while he and his
doctors resolve a medical condition, the pain from which
makes it impossible for him to wear a skate or shoe, stand on the
bench and actively coach the team. He missed a number of practices
and several games last season due to the condition and it has
continued over the summer and into the current year. "It is a
chronic arthritic condition which when it flares up is very
painful," Marsh said.
"I think we have the makings of a good team and I want to avoid the
uncertainty of whether I am in or out," said Marsh. "We have two
very experienced coaches and I have tremendous confidence in their
abilities to get things done and keep the program moving in the
right direction. With my taking a leave, we will be able to bring
someone in to help with the recruiting under NCAA rules. I hope to
be able to return this season, but I need to be able to function
the way I have in the past as a coach."
"We wish Joe a speedy and complete recovery so he can return to his
duties soon," said athletic director Margie Strait. "Joe has
expressed his confidence in the ability of Mike and Greg to lead
the team and continue the success of the program, and I share that
confidence."
