Lake State taps Ontarian as new hockey coach

NEWS RELEASE

*********************** Jim Roque tapped as Laker head hockey coach

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. - Lake Superior State University has appointed long-time assistant Jim Roque as its new head hockey coach, according to a statement released by the LSSU Sports Information Office on Monday.

He replaces Frank Anzalone.

Roque assumes duties immediately, and fourth-year assistant coach Tim Christian will remain in that capacity.

"We believe that there is a need for change in our hockey program, and that this is the best possible decision we can make," said Bill Crawford, director of athletics.

Anzalone compiled a 32-97-20 record since his rehiring in 2001-02, and has an overall record of 223-205-42 in his 13 years with the Lakers.

His first stint as head coach at LSSU was from 1982-83 through 1989-90.

Roque has been an assistant at Lake Superior for 10 years, and worked in the same capacity at Clarkson University for six seasons.

He is a 1987 graduate of LSSU and is tied for 19th in all-time scoring, totaling 144 points as a play-making center.

"Jim brings continuity to the coaching situation," said Crawford. "I am confident that he will do a great job. He recruited many of our players and knows our strengths and weaknesses. I hope that Laker fans everywhere will continue to support the program."

Roque, a Killarney, Ont., native, was an assistant at LSSU was from 1988-91 and in 1994-95.

After six seasons as an assistant at Clarkson, he returned to LSSU again in 2001.

He also spent 2-½ seasons coaching in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League from 1991-93.

Roque is the ninth head coach in the 40-year history of Laker Hockey.

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