Marsh To Take Medical Leave from Coaching Position
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Beverley SchaeferVeteran Saint coach Joe Marsh will take a medical leave
St. Lawrence University men's ice hockey head coach Joe Marsh has announced his intention to take an indefinite medical leave from his coaching position effective immediately. "I think it is best for the team that I step aside until this medical problem is taken care of," said Marsh.
Marsh, in his 27th season as Saint coach, will turn the coaching duties over to Mike Hurlbut and Greg Carvel while he and his doctors resolve a medical condition, the pain from which makes it impossible for him to wear a skate or shoe, stand on the bench and actively coach the team. He missed a number of practices and several games last season due to the condition and it has continued over the summer and into the current year. "It is a chronic arthritic condition which when it flares up is very painful," Marsh said.
"I think we have the makings of a good team and I want to avoid the uncertainty of whether I am in or out," said Marsh. "We have two very experienced coaches and I have tremendous confidence in their abilities to get things done and keep the program moving in the right direction. With my taking a leave, we will be able to bring someone in to help with the recruiting under NCAA rules. I hope to be able to return this season, but I need to be able to function the way I have in the past as a coach."
"We wish Joe a speedy and complete recovery so he can return to his duties soon," said athletic director Margie Strait. "Joe has expressed his confidence in the ability of Mike and Greg to lead the team and continue the success of the program, and I share that confidence."