CANTON, N.Y. -- St. Lawrence University has named men's hockey Associate Head Coach Chris Wells the new women's ice hockey coach, as Paul Flanagan announced his departure for Syracuse University on Monday.

Wells, a 1992 graduate of St. Lawrence, returned to his alma mater as an assistant men's hockey coach in 1999 after a stint behind the bench at Western Michigan University. The Canton, NY native was named the Associate Head Coach of the men's program in January of 2003.

"Chris has served as a coach at St. Lawrence for nearly ten years, and he clearly understands all the aspects of a hockey program and most importantly the mission of the University," said St. Lawrence University Athletic Director Margie Strait. "He is an outstanding teacher of the game, and will help us make a seamless transition to the next chapter while maintaining the rich tradition for women's hockey at St. Lawrence University. Thanks to Paul and his assistants, the program is in good order and Chris is ready for this new challenge."

Wells began his collegiate coaching career as an assistant at Colgate University following a professional playing career in Europe.

"I'm thrilled Coach Wells is willing to accept this new challenge in his career, and help the women's hockey program maintain a tradition of success," added Strait.

Wells replaces Flanagan, who heads to Central New York after nine seasons behind the women's hockey bench at Appleton Arena. Flanagan finishes his career at St. Lawrence as the all-time winningest coach in the program's history with a 230-83-24 (.718) record. The winner of both the ECAC Hockey and AHCA Coach of the Year awards, Flanagan notched eight consecutive 20+ win seasons and six NCAA Tournament appearances.

Strait went on to say that Syracuse University is fortunate to have Paul Flanagan joining their staff to mentor a new women's ice hockey program as it begins its first competitive season in the fall. "His experience, dedication and work ethic will position them in the growing sport of women's ice hockey," she said.