Canisius Promotes Trevor Large to Head Coach

CHN Staff Report

Trevor Large, a member of the Canisius coaching staff for the past three seasons and an 11-year coaching veteran in Atlantic Hockey, has been named head coach of the Golden Griffins.

Large replaces Dave Smith, who left to take the head coaching position at Rensselaer. He was an assistant for Smith the last three seasons.

Canisius had also interviewed Miami assistant Brent Brekke and RIT assistant Brian Hills this week, before deciding to stick with Large, who was considered the frontrunner.

“During his time with our program, Trevor has shown all the qualities to be a successful Division I head coach,” Canisius athletic director Bill Maher said. “He has a proven track record of recruiting and coaching student-athletes that are successful, both on the ice and in the classroom. He knows this program well, and I firmly believe he is the best choice to continue the growth of our hockey program. Our goal here at Canisius is to regularly compete for Atlantic Hockey Championships. I look forward to working with Trevor to achieve that goal.”

Large was influential in the arrival of graduate transfer Charles Williams, who became the program's first All-American selection and the school's first finalist for both the Hobey Baker and Mike Ritcher Awards during the 2016-17 campaign.

“I would like to thank Canisius College President John J. Hurley and Bill Maher for this tremendous opportunity,” Large said. “It has been my goal to become a Division I head coach and the opportunity to lead the Canisius hockey program is one I take great pride in.

“The culture at Canisius is truly special and I am honored to have the chance to remain a part of it. During my time with the program, we have achieved a great amount of success. I would like to thank Dave Smith, the student-athletes, and the support staff, for all their efforts to move the program forward. After a tremendous 2016-17 season, we are just scratching the surface of the potential of Griffs hockey.”

Prior to Canisius, Large spent six seasons at Army (2008-14) as an assitant coach. He began his coaching career as an assistant at American International (2006-08).

A four-year letterwinner at Ferris State (2000-04), Large totaled 19 goals and 14 assists in 129 career games. He helped the Bulldogs capture the 2003 CCHA regular-season championship and first-ever NCAA tournament appearance.

Large will be formally introduced to the media on Monday, May 1 at 2:30 p.m.