By Jim Sheehan
Hofstra Sports Information
Hempstead, NY – Hofstra University Vice President and Director of Athletics Jeffrey A. Hathaway announced today that Head Wrestling Coach Rob Anspach has resigned his position to pursue professional opportunities outside of coaching.
Anspach has accepted a commercial sales representative position with Advantage Sport & Fitness.
“I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Hofstra University, President Stuart Rabinowitz and Vice President and Director of Athletics Jeff Hathaway for the opportunity to be part of the Hofstra Athletic Department and lead the wrestling program,” stated Anspach. “It was a very difficult decision to leave Hofstra, where I have spent the last 18 years as a student-athlete and coach, but this is the best situation for my family. I know Jeff will do a thorough search to find the right candidate for the job and I look forward to supporting the wrestling program for many years to come.”
“I want to express my thanks to Rob for his passion and commitment to the Hofstra Wrestling program as a student-athlete, assistant coach and head coach,” commented Hathaway. “We wish Rob and his family the very best as he moves to his new position in the fitness equipment business. I know he will enjoy the same success there as he has as a wrestling coach.”
Anspach just completed his third season as head coach and his 12th year on the Pride staff in 2013-14. Anspach concludes his Hofstra tenure (assistant and head coaching) having helped lead the Pride to a 136-86-6 dual meet record and 10 conference championships. In addition, he assisted in the development of 41 league champions and 76 student-athletes reached the NCAA Championships during his time on the Hofstra coaching staff. Of that 76, 15 have earned All-America honors.
A 2001 graduate of Hofstra, Anspach compiled a 69-51 record during his five-year career as a student-athlete with the Pride.
Zach Tanelli, who has served as the head assistant coach for the past two seasons and just concluded his fifth season on staff, has been named the interim head coach.
Tanelli is a 2009 graduate of Wisconsin where he was a member of the Badgers wrestling squad. During his undergraduate career, Tanelli posted an 88-31 overall record and earned All-American accolades in 2009. He also qualified for the NCAA Championships on three occasions.
Hathaway also announced that a national search for the next head coach of the Hofstra Wrestling program will begin immediately.