ST. PAUL, Minn. — The head coach of the University of St. Thomas women’s hockey team has resigned following an “incident,” according to school officials, who would not release details of what happened.
Joel Johnson resigned Tuesday, athletics director Phil Esten said in a statement.
“While I cannot comment on the details of the incident itself, I can confirm that we immediately launched an investigation after concerns were brought to our attention following Friday night’s match,” Esten said. “Coach Johnson did not coach the team on Saturday evening and resigned on Tuesday. We hold all of our coaches to the highest standards, consistent with the university’s values and beliefs, and prioritize the experience and well-being of our student-athletes. “
Chris Szagola / AP
The Tommies lost 4-1 at Bemidji State on Friday night. Johnson’s overall record as Tommies head coach was 28-87-4.
Johnson was hired to coach the team in 2021. He previously served as associate head coach of the University of Minnesota women’s hockey team and head coach of the Bethel University men’s program. Johnson too coached the U.S. Olympic women’s hockey team in 2022.
Assistant coach Bethany Brausen will take over in the interim, the school said.
