DAN CHURCH NAMED HEAD COACH OF LIONS WOMEN'S HOCKEY

York University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Church as women's ice hockey head coach and Academic Services Coordinator.

Church, a National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Level Three certified coach, served as an assistant with the University of Toronto women's hockey program for the past seven years. During that time, the Varsity Blues won four Ontario University Athletics (OUA) titles and captured the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) National Championship in 2000.

\"This is a great opportunity to build a tradition of excellence at one of Canada's top universities,\" said Church.

Church graduated from the U of T with a bachelor's degree in History and Political Science in 1997. He is also a Canadian Professional Golfer's Association (CPGA) golf professional and holds a certificate in Professional Golf Management from Humber College.

\"We're delighted to welcome Dan Church to the York staff,\" said Ken Schildroth, Manager, Interuniversity Sport. \"Hiring a full-time coach of his calibre illustrates the University`s commitment to building a strong women`s hockey program."

As Academic Services Coordinator, Church will provide leadership in the delivery of academic support services for all interuniversity athletes.

Church replaces Tim Manastersky, who served as a part-time head coach for 10 seasons.

The Lions open the 2004-05 season on October 22nd against the University of Guelph.

(Source: Jim McLarty, York Sports Information)