Houghton, Mich. -- Bob Mancini, head hockey coach at Michigan Tech since 1992-93, has resigned his position at MTU to accept the job as assistant coach for the newly-created USA Hockey Elite Development Program under Jeff Jackson. Mancini's resignation is effective immediately. "Bob did an outstanding job for us and we're certainly sad to see him go," said Huskies athletic director Rick Yeo. "He's got a great opportunity and we wish him and Laura the very best in the future." Mancini compiled a 63-80-20 record in his four years at the helm of the MTU ice program. He led the Huskies to three appearances in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association Final Five, including a spot in the event's title games this past season. In addition, MTU captured its only two Ramada Cup titles under Mancini's guidance. "It was a very difficult decision," said Mancini, who is currently on two-week honeymoon trip in Hawaii. "This is a new program under USA Hockey and it's a chance to help develop the sport in our country. I'm very excited about that. "I've enjoyed my time at Michigan Tech and will always have a place in my heart for Huskies hockey." According to Yeo, a national search for a new coach will begin immediately. # # # # # 16july96.mancinileavesforusahockey.hockeyreleases95-96.fishmachd.qxpress3.32 HOCKEY-L is for discussion of college ice hockey; send information to [log in to unmask], The College Hockey Information List.