LONDON, Ont. - The Western Mustangs women's hockey team will begin its search for a new head coach after the Department of Sports and Recreation Services announced current coach Paul Cook has decided to step down.

Cook, the head coach of the Mustangs over the past seven seasons, has worked hard to balance coaching, family life, and his full-time teaching job as principal at Aberdeen Public School in London, Ont.

The former Ontario Hockey League bench-boss built a solid foundation for his successor.

"Paul exhibited unquestionable commitment and passion to keep our women's hockey program moving forward," said Therese Quigley, Director of Sports and Recreation Services at Western. "We thank Paul for his efforts and now will begin the search for a strong replacement who will ensure our program can continue to move forward."

Cook thanked all his former players and the University for the opportunity.

"I met a lot of great young women and great people through my time coaching here at Western. I wish the program the best of luck moving forward," Cook said. "I want to thank my family for their patience in allowing me to pursue this coaching opportunity and look forward to spending some more time closer to home."

Those interested in information on the head coaching vacancy may contact Chuck Mathies at cmathie@uwo.ca. The job posting is located here.