After 13 years of service to the ice hockey program at the University of Tampa, Dr. Stephen Kucera has announced his retirement. 

The University of Tampa Ice Hockey Program played in its inaugural season in 2009 with Kucera serving as Faculty Advisor and Head Coach. Since then, Dr. Kucera has remained at the helm of the program leading his men to two SCHC Championships, four ACHA Div. III Nationals appearances (Includes 2020 Nationals canceled due to COVID-19), and most recently an appearance in the 2022 CHF Federation Cup. 

With Statistics only dating back to 2013, Kucera was behind the bench for 167+ wins. In 2022 he was awarded the SCHC Coach Of the Year for leading the Spartans to a 27-1-1 record, the team's best in history. 

Taking on the duties of Staff Advisor and Head Coach will be Lance Tackett. Lance has served as an Assistant Coach since 2012 and has played a pivotal role in the creation of the powerhouse that is Spartans Hockey.