Merrimack College announced Tuesday, Oct. 4 that men’s hockey assistant coach Josh Ciocco has died.
Ciocco, who was beginning his fifth season on the Warriors staff, was 38.
“The Merrimack community and men’s hockey program are deeply saddened by the passing of assistant coach,” a news release from Merrimack said. “Josh was tireless in recruiting talented and dedicated student-athletes to Merrimack, and equally passionate in his commitment to coaching them to reach their greatest potential.
“Our prayers and deepest condolences are extended to Josh’s parents, brothers and all members of the Merrimack men’s hockey team and coaching staff,” the college said.
Previously, Ciocco served as an assistant coach at Brown University, and at the University of Alaska in Anchorage.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science in 2007 from the University of New Hampshire, where he was a four-year member of the hockey program, captaining the Wildcats in his senior season.
He returned to UNH in 2010 to earn his MBA after competing for two seasons in the ECHL with the Wheeling Nailers and Fresno Falcons.
In the BCHL, Ciocco played for the Vernon Vipers, Salmon Arm Silverbacks, Cowichan Valley Capitals, and Prince George Spruce Kings, as a right winger.
The cause of his death was not disclosed.
Tributes poured in on social media following the sad news of Ciocco’s passing.
