Wisconsin Badgers fire men's hockey coach Mike Eaves

On Friday, Wisconsin Badgers athletic director Barry Alvarez made the decision to fire long-time men's hockey head coach Mike Eaves. Eaves compiled a 267-225-66 record during his time in Madison, and won a national championship in 2006.

Eaves had been the head coach of the Badgers since the 2002-03 season, after having played for the Badgers from 1974 to 1978. He is one Wisconsin's most decorated student athletes, having twice been named an All-American, won a National Championship, is the Badgers' all-time leader in points (94 goals, 173 assists) and played for the United States national teams in 1976 and 1978.

The move comes on the heels of the Badgers finishing off their second consecutive losing season after their first-round Big Ten Tournament loss to Penn State.

Barry Alvarez sounded discouraged about having to make the move, but also firm in his decision. Here's what he had to say in speaking with Andy Baggot.

"I told mike I appreciated the work he's done here. I also told him that we have great tradition and standards here in hockey. He's the gate-keeper of hockey. I'm the gate-keeper of the department. We both have a responsibility.

After last season, because of the success we've had in the past, we felt that Mike had earned a chance to get the ship righted. But now, after back-to-back seasons like the last two we've had, I feel we need a change."

Over the past two seasons, the Badgers compiled an overall record of 12-45-13.

A national search for his successor will begin immediately, according to the athletic department.