Chris MacKenzie has resigned his position as the head coach of the Niagara University women’s hockey team to pursue a position within a professional hockey organization. Assistant coach Josh Sciba will assume the role of interim head coach for the 2011-12 season.

“We appreciate Coach MacKenzie’s hard work and dedication to the Niagara University women's hockey program,” said Ed McLaughlin, athletic director. “The team’s performance improved under his direction, both on the ice and in the classroom, and his student-athletes represented the university in the best possible way throughout the community.”

MacKenzie, who is a Niagara alumnus (‘00) and former men’s hockey standout, was the second head coach in the history of the women’s program at Niagara. In his two seasons behind the bench, MacKenzie was 23-31-10. Off the ice, MacKenzie’s Purple Eagles were extremely active with WNY Special Olympics, the Niagara Jr. Purple Eagle Mentor program and participation in the season long SABAH (Skating Athletes Bold At Heart) program.

“I'm proud of the progress this program has made,” said MacKenzie. “The team has improved in athletics, academics and community involvement which is in line with our school mission. I would anticipate this year to be the program’s best in a long time. Although very tough, this is a personal decision to spend more time with my family and pursue some unique opportunities elsewhere.”

This will be Sciba's fourth season with the Niagara women’s hockey team. As an assistant coach, Sciba worked with the forwards, special teams, and all facets of recruiting, video analysis, academics, strength and conditioning, community service and SAAC. Sciba played four seasons of Division I hockey at the University of Notre Dame. He was named the team’s Offensive Player of the Year for the 2005-06 season. He graduated from Notre Dame in 2007 with a degree in sociology and computer applications.

A national search for a head coach for the women’s hockey team will take place following the upcoming season.