EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (blugolds.com) –The UW-Eau Claire athletics department announced today that Mike Collins has been reassigned within the athletic department and a national search for a new head women’s hockey coach will begin immediately.

“Blugold athletics appreciates Coach Collins’ contributions to women’s hockey and being a pioneer for the program,” said Director of Athletics Dan Schumacher. “He has been a great ambassador of this department and university. Coach bleeds blue and gold and we thank him for his 15 years of service.”

“First, I would like to thank my wife and two sons for their support over the years,” said Collins. “I would also like to thank the 400-plus Blugold women’s hockey players and alums. And to my assistant coaches, Amanda Mussehl, Marc Paulson and Taylor Ward, thank you for all your hard work. The relationships with these fine student-athletes and coaches has truly been the most rewarding part of the job.”

Collins was named the head coach in 2000 when the women’s hockey program first began. In his 15 years as head coach, Collins compiled a 140-215-38 record along with coaching 62 National College Hockey Association (NCHA) Academic All-Americans including three players earning NCHA Scholar-Athlete awards.

“I’ve had great support from all of my fellow coaches in the athletic department and have enjoyed working together,” said Collins. “A special thanks to program assistant Nancy Hendricks for all her hard work.”

Four Blugolds have received All-Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) honors in the two seasons of the conference along with 31 All-NCHA honorees in Collins’ tenure, including the 2011 NCHA Player of the Year, Kristin Faber, who was also named an American Hockey Coaches Association (AHCA) All-American.

 “I would also like to express my appreciation for all the support our program received from our Center Ice Booster Club and a special thanks to President Pat Rolbiecki,” said Collins. “Lastly, I’d like to thank Marilyn Skrivseth for hiring me and providing me the opportunity to raise my family in a wonderful city and university community.

“At the end of 15 years, I feel that I have fulfilled the mission of the University. I am proud to have had the chance to teach, coach and guide so many outstanding individuals into the next phase of their adult lives. Mission accomplished!”