“I have been very proud to be a part of Michigan State hockey, and I would like to thank Ron Mason for giving me this opportunity nine years ago,” Comley said in a statement. “This program is very special, with a long tradition of success. I am very proud that we could bring a National Championship here in 2007, and not only have we had good hockey players in our locker room, we have had quality young men who represented this program well in the classroom and in the community. I want to thank them, as well as my staff, for an experience at Michigan State that leaves me with many great memories.

“As I continue on as the head coach for the remainder of this season, our focus for our players and staff will not change. We have improved throughout this season, and it is important for all of us to continue to try to improve every day. While the end of my Michigan State career is on the horizon, we owe it to these players to continue with business as usual. We have two important games this weekend, and four more series after that – and each game is important. That is, and will remain, our focus in these coming weeks.”

Comley is in is 38th season coaching college hockey. He ranks in the top five all time in victories with a 778-608-110 career record and is one of only two coaches to win a national championship at two different schools.

Prior to arriving in East Lansing, Comley spent 26 years coaching Northern Michigan, compiling a 538-429-68 record.

Hollis said in a statement that the search for a replacement will begin immediately.

“A thorough national search will begin immediately to identify Coach Comley’s successor as the head coach of the Michigan State hockey program,” said Hollis.

“Hockey is important to our athletic department and our campus community, as well as to our fans. It is a program with a long and storied tradition. However, what is also important is to support the coaches and our hockey student-athletes for the remainder of this season.”

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