Michigan State University has named CCHA Commissioner Tom Anastos as Rick Comley’s replacement at the position of head hockey coach. Comley is retiring after the current season.

Anastos has been serving as the commissioner of the CCHA since 1998 and has been named one of “hockey’s 100 most powerful people” by The Hockey News for the past 5 years. Anastos played hockey at MSU from 1981-85. IN addition to his role as CCHA commish, he was also president of the HCA (Hockey Commissioners\’ Association).

This news comes on the heels of the Big Ten announcing the probable formation of their own hockey conference, which would strip the CCHA of 3 of its premiere schools, including MSU.

Aside from the above facts, Anastos will be looking to return MSU to national prominence following a rough couple of years in East Lansing. MSU has had a tough time recruiting as of late, and has had to deal with rival Michigan\‘s ability to recruit US NTDPers that already reside in Ann Arbor as part of that program.

As for the CCHA… it\‘s the second big blow in only a few days. They appear to be losing Michigan, Michigan State, and Ohio State in a few years, and now also have lost the man widely considered one of the best and most-innovative heads in all of hockey.

What do you think, college hockey fans? Personally this blindsided me. As an MSU fan I’m happy to see this hire. As a longtime CCHA fan though, this move makes me fear for their long-term well-being now.