Thu Mar 27 21:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Cornell Hockey Coach Schafer Retires After Historic Career; Jones Takes the Helm

**ITHACA, NY** – Cornell University’s men’s hockey program is entering a new era. Long-time head coach Mike Schafer ’86, who led the Big Red for 30 seasons, announced his retirement, effective at the end of the 2024-25 season. His impressive 560-299-117 record places him second in Cornell coaching history across all sports, behind only softball coach Dick Blood. Schafer’s tenure saw Cornell consistently ranked among the nation’s elite, achieving a remarkable .633 win percentage.

Schafer’s departure marks the end of an era of unprecedented success. Under his guidance, Cornell made numerous NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Frozen Four appearance in 2003. His 560 wins rank fourth among active Division I men’s coaches with at least 200 victories.

Taking the reins will be Casey Jones ’90, a former Cornell standout and assistant coach under Schafer. Jones brings extensive experience, including a successful 13-year head coaching stint at Clarkson University (234-185-56 record), where he won the 2019 ECAC Hockey Coach of the Year award. He also previously served as Cornell’s associate head coach from 2008-2011 and again from June 2024 onward.

The Big Red, currently ranked 16th nationally, is making its 25th NCAA Tournament appearance this weekend, competing in the Toledo Regional. This marks Schafer’s 15th and final NCAA Tournament. Despite the coaching change looming, the team enters the tournament playing strong, having averaged at least 3.75 goals scored per game while allowing under 1.50 goals against per game since February 14th. Goaltender Ian Shane, currently tied for second all-time in Cornell wins, anchors the team’s stellar defense. Several Cornell players also recently received accolades from ECAC Hockey and the Ivy League. The team’s strong performance sets a positive tone for the transition to the Jones era.

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