Manastersky Named Canisius Hockey Assistant Coach

Courtesy of Canisius Athletic Communications

T.J. Manastersky will join the Canisius hockey coaching staff, announced by head coach Dave Smith. Manastersky will assist with recruiting and all aspects of running the program.

“We are happy to have T.J. come on board as an assistant coach,” Smith said. “His background and enthusiasm will benefit our players and our program.”

Manastersky spent the 2007-08 season with the Griffs as a student manager, assisting the coaching staff with daily practices, skill development and scouting. He has also recently served as an assistant coach at the 2008 Empire State Games with the Western Team and was a guest coach at the USA Hockey Select 14’s Development Camp in June.

Manastersky played collegiately for the Oswego Lakers from 2004 to 2006 and was a member of the SUNYAC All-Academic Team. He was a key member of the team’s defense and helped the Lakers earn as high as a No. 3 national ranking. After graduation, Manastersky played with the Richmond Renegades of the Southern Professional Hockey League.

“T.J. is passionate about Canisius College and the players in our program,” Smith said. “After spending last year as a student manager, he is familiar with our program and the school.”

Manastersky graduated cum laude from Oswego State in 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in English writing arts. He is currently pursuing his master’s degree at Canisius in education and physical education.