University of Denver goaltending coach and ace recruiter Seth Appert, 31, has left the program to take over as head coach at Rensselaer in Troy, N.Y.
Appert, who recruited and developed Frozen Four MVPs Adam Berkhoel (2004) and Peter Mannino (2005) and 2006 Hobey Baker Award winner Matt Carle, takes over for Dan Fridgen, who resigned last month.
“Seth has been a very valuable member of our coaching staff,” DU coach George Gwozdecky said of the former Ferris State goalie, who joined DU as graduate assistant in 1997.
“Not only has he recruited outstanding talent, he’s developed that talent. His passion for the game is infectious.”
Possible candidates to replace Appert include three former DU defensemen who served as captains under Gwozdecky: Mike Corbett (1994-97), Bryan Vines (1998-2002) and Matt Laatsch (2000-05). Corbett is an assistant coach at Air Force. Vines is in his first year as video coach for the Avalanche. Laatsch was in line to become the Pioneers’ volunteer coach next season before Appert’s resignation.
Appert could not be reached for comment. He takes over a program that went 14-17-6 overall and 8-8-6 in the Eastern College Athletic Conference Hockey League last season. He signed a four-year contract.
Mike Chambers can be reached at 303-820-5453 or mchambers@denverpost.com.
