Though his first four seasons were dominant, the final five had to motivate his resignation somewhat. The program hit hard times, beginning with a slip to .500 in 1994-95 at 14-14-2. It has never eclipsed the .500 mark since. The five straight non-winning seasons are a first in school history.

The program hit a nadir in December, starting the season 0-8-1 in the ECAC with the team looking a little rudderless. It took a remarkable second half just to squeak into the postseason--for which 10 of 12 teams qualify.

Still, according to Cleary, Harvard athletics represents more than winning.

"Ronn possesses the qualities we value most in our coaches," he said. "Aside from being a great competitor and having outstanding knowledge of the game, he is respected by those who know him for his integrity, honesty, and a commitment to sportsmanship."

Tomassoni was always conscious of continuing the Harvard tradition of sportsmanship and teamwork embodied by Cleary, his mentor. Never one to cast the spotlight upon himself, he adamantly refused an interview for a feature in The Crimson in March, and he spent the days preceding his resignation informing all his old players before alerting the media.

But it was not until Friday that he could gather his present squad together for a team meeting at 3 p.m. He made absolutely sure that his team heard the news from him first.

He walked into Dillon Field House, told his team that "this is going to be a short meeting and a difficult one," and choked back his emotions by complaining about his "darn allergies acting up."