SYRACUSE, N.Y. - The SUNYAC announces Potsdam as the recipient of the 2024 Men's Ice Hockey Coaching Staff of the Year award, which is voted on by the conference coaches.

Chris Bernard is in his 15th season as Potsdam's head coach and is assisted by Mike LaSala, Paul Beckstead and Rodger Huiatt. The Bears finished regular season conference play with two more wins than last season to clinch the final spot in the SUNYAC tournament. In the first round of the post season, Potsdam played to a 2-2 tie in regulation against No. 3 Plattsburgh, but fell 3-2 in overtime. Three Bears were recognized with SUNYAC weekly awards during the 2023-24 season including goaltender Lenny Perno who was also named to the league's All-Rookie team.