MISSOULA, Mont. - The University of Montana Men’s Lacrosse Team is pleased to announce the hiring of Ryan Hanavan as Head Coach for the 2008-2009 season, effective immediately.

Hanavan is a native of Orchard Park, NY, and comes to the Griz after two seasons as head coach at The University of Idaho. Dr. Hanavan completed his undergraduate degree at The University of Montana in 2001 and his doctorate in entomology from The University of Idaho in 2008. In addition to his time coaching at The University of Idaho, Hanavan was also a key component of the 2007 Montana playoff staff that helped bring a national title to Missoula. Former Griz Head Coach Kevin Flynn will be staying on as an assistant for the 2008 season.

“We’re all very excited to have Ryan on board for next season and I’m confident in his ability to lead this program to the next level,” says Flynn. “Ryan is really a tremendous addition to our team and we’re glad to see him back in Missoula.”

“It’s great to be back in Missoula with such a talented program,” notes Hanavan, “I feel like we have the pieces in place to compete on a national level and I’m looking forward to that opportunity. I’m excited to hit the ground running with Kevin on preparing for the upcoming season. I’m very thankful for this opportunity and look forward to getting to work.”

The Grizzlies are coming off a 10-4 debut year in the MCLA-1 and will begin play this fall on October 3rd at the 2nd Annual Montana Shootout.

Stay tuned to www.grizlax.com for the latest on Montana Lacrosse.