The newest in Division I men's college hockey is turning to a veteran coach.
The University of St. Thomas on Friday announced the hiring of Rico Blasi, who was head coach at Miami (Ohio) for 20 seasons.
The Tommies are joining the newly reformed CCHA next season as part of the school's elevation to Division I status in all sports.
Blasi, 49, was national coach of the year with the Redhawks in 2006.
His teams won 398 games and appeared in the Frozen Four twice.
Since last fall, Blasi was associate athletic director for men's and women's hockey at Providence College.
St. Thomas has been a long-time Division III men's hockey powerhouse, and this winter completed the program's 39th straight winning season.
Jeff Boeser announced his retirement before last season, his 11th at St. Thomas.
With the Tommies moving up, the state of Minnesota will have six Division I men's hockey teams.