DLS Varsity Hockey Coach Sean Clark may be leaving De La Salle Collegiate, but his determination and goal-setting mindset remains with the varsity team he helped to build.

This week, Clark was named general manager of the Sioux City Musketeers, a junior ice hockey team in the Western Conference of the U.S. Hockey League. “It’s a bittersweet day for me,” Clark said. “De La Salle is a special place and working with our young men has been one of the greatest experiences of my life.”  

Along with a regional championship this past season, “I am so proud of the work our student-athletes have put in throughout my tenure,” he said. “We constantly challenged our group to 'raise their standard,' and to their credit, they repeatedly met that challenge head on.”  

Athletic Director Dan Rohn has been actively seeking out those who will best fit the hockey coach position; no small task. Rohn stressed that all aspects of the DLS hockey program (including summer strength & conditioning and summer ice time) will continue, including the return of the JV hockey team this winter. 

Ian Cicchini, ’10, DLS JV hockey head coach, called Clark a great mentor, having been on his coaching staff for three years. “Sean did a lot for me,” he said. “I wanted to return to coaching after a few years away, and he welcomed me with open arms.

“More importantly, he became my mentor,” he added. “I would often watch him handle tough situations with humility and grace. I can’t tell you the amount of things he’s taught me without even saying anything to me directly.” 

He is extremely grateful for the time they coached together: “As great of a mentor he is to me, he’s a better friend. Truly one of the most exceptional individuals I’ve had the pleasure to work with." 

Cicchini knows the program is on solid ground and is determined to keep it there. “We have to keep moving forward,” he said. “(Clark) laid the culture down, and it’s up to us to make sure it doesn’t leave.”

Clark echoed his thoughts. “I want to thank the De La Salle administration,faculty, athletics and support staff, but most of all I want to thank the students for their faith, structure, competitiveness, and  grit, they truly make this school special.”

For those interested in attending summer hockey workouts, they will continue as planned  (dates and times of first week):
 

ON-ICE @Mt. Clemens Ice Arena

• June 12 6:30 p.m.
• June 13 7:15 p.m.
• June 14 7:30 p.m.

OFF-ICE @DLS Weight Room

• June 13 8:30 a.m.
• June 14 8:30 a.m.
• June 15 8:30 a.m.

For more information, email Assistant Coach Nick Stefani: nstefan051@gmail.com; or JV Coach Ian Cicchini at icicchini@delasallehs.com.