Brown head coach Brendan Whittet will step away from the program to take family medical leave, effective Feb. 20, the school announced Wednesday. Assistant coach Jason Smith will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
When Whittet returns from the leave, he will transition into a new role in athletics administration, according to the school.
“For over half my life, Brown University has been more than just an institution to me; it has been my home, my community, and my passion,” Whittet said in a statement. “From my days as a student-athlete to my tenure as head coach, I have poured my heart into this program and this university. This place is woven into the fabric of who I am.
“However, at this moment, I need to prioritize my family’s health and recovery and will be taking a family medical leave, as my energy needs to be directed toward my loved ones,” he continued. “While stepping away from the bench is difficult, I am incredibly grateful for the support of (the university).”
Whittet led the Bears to 149 victories after being named Brown’s 15th head men’s hockey coach in 2009. He coached four NHL draftees and led the team to three ECAC tournament semifinal appearances.
“Brendan has been an integral part of Brown University and our men’s ice hockey program for much of his adult life,” athletic director M. Grace Calhoun said. “As a player and coach, he built a culture of integrity and mentorship that has had a tremendous impact on hundreds of student-athletes over the years. We are profoundly grateful for all of his exceptional contributions to Brown Hockey and look forward to his return to College Hill.”
A former defenseman at Brown and an East Providence, R.I., native, Whittet was a four-year letterwinner for the Bears. He appeared in 74 games and helped lead the Bears to an Ivy League title in 1992, two trips to the ECAC tournament final in 1993 and 1994 and an at-large NCAA tournament bid in 1993.
The school announced it will conduct a national search for Whittet’s replacement effective immediately.