Duco named head coach of Rams men's hockey program

TORONTO – The Ryerson University Department of Athletics is proud to announce the appointment of Johnny Duco as the new Head Coach of the Ryerson Rams men's hockey team following a national search to fill the position.

Duco spent the past season as the Interim Head Coach for the Rams and had one of the most successful seasons in program history. Prior to earning the Interim role, Duco was an assistant coach with the Rams for three seasons.

"We are pleased to appoint coach Duco as our full-time men's hockey head coach," said Dr. Ivan Joseph, Director of Athletics at Ryerson. "This past year was a record-breaking year for our team under Johnny's leadership, including program records in wins and goals scored. Our team was voted into the national rankings and earned its first national-level major award winner with the Dr. Randy Gregg Award. I believe we have one of the finest young coaches in the conference and we are pleased to have Johnny as he launches his career."

Ryerson posted a 22-4-2 record in the 2016-17 regular season with Duco at the helm, good for top spot in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) conference. The Rams had the most potent offence, averaging 4.86 goals per game – more than half a goal better than the next closest team. With Duco behind the bench the Rams also improved their defence, allowing fewer goals against than the season prior.

Prior to joining the Rams in 2013, Duco spent three seasons as a coach in the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) as well as two seasons in the Greater Metro Junior A Hockey League (GMHL). As head coach of the Bradford Rattlers in the GMHL, Duco led his team to a perfect 42-0-0-0 regular season record and a Russell Cup championship in the 2012-13 season.

Duco played his collegiate hockey in the NCAA with Oswego State when the Lakers were ranked No. 2 in the country. He also played for the Buffalo State Bengals and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Wellness. Duco continued his education with a Masters of Science and Education from Medaille College in Buffalo.

The 2017-18 season officially begins this coming September with open tryouts and exhibition play.

Source: Ryerson Rams