The CCHA has named Tom Anastos the conference’s new commissioner. Anastos, currently president of the junior-hockey North American Hockey League, will officially succeed outgoing commissioner Bill Beagan on May 1.
A native of Dearborn, Mich., Anastos, 34, played collegiately at Michigan State from 1981-85, and professionally in the Montreal Canadiens’ organization. Following his playing career, he served as the head coach at Michigan-Dearborn and as an assistant coach at his alma mater.
In four years with the NAHL, Anastos has overseen expansion to Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., St. Louis, Mo., and Chicago. As a member of USA Hockey’s Junior Council, Anastos has been instrumental in increasing the national exposure of the NAHL and determining the direction of junior hockey.
Said Anastos, “The CCHA is clearly one of college hockey’s premier conferences. I am very excited about the opportunity to work for its member schools, and to carry forward the progressive vision that has been a CCHA trademark.”
“Having been a CCHA player and coaching staff member, Tom Anastos understands and appreciates the mission, culture and role of the CCHA,” said Dr. Michael Kasavana, chair of the conference’s search committee. “I am confident that Tom will lead the CCHA into the next millennium with great enthusiasm, pride and compassion. He is a talented administrator who believes in teamwork and commitment to excellence.”
Anastos signed a four-year contract. An in-person press conference will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 21, in Joe Louis Arena’s postgame press conference area outside the team locker rooms.
