OSWEGO, N.Y. — Jon Whitelaw has been appointed interim head coach of the SUNY Oswego men's ice hockey program, effective August 2026. Whitelaw steps into the role after serving as an assistant coach and brings a strong understanding of the program's culture, student-athlete development, and competitive expectations.

"We are confident in Jon's ability to lead our program during this transition," said Wendy McManus, Assistant Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. "He has earned the respect of our student-athletes and staff, and he understands what it takes to compete at a high level while supporting the academic and personal success of our players."

Whitelaw has been a key contributor to the Lakers' coaching staff, working closely with player development, recruiting, and game preparation. His familiarity with the roster and commitment to maintaining continuity position him well to guide the program through the remainder of the season.

"It's truly an honor to accept the role of interim head coach, and I'm deeply appreciative of the trust and belief our administration has placed in me. Learning under Ed Gosek has been invaluable, and his mentorship has helped shape my approach to this opportunity. I understand how much this program means to our campus and community, and I'm excited to carry on its tradition into a new era, while continuing to provide our student-athletes with a first-class academic and athletic experience."

Whitelaw's playing career was decorated with numerous accolades. As a freshman in 2009–10, he was named SUNYAC Rookie of the Year. He went on to serve as an assistant captain in 2011–12, when he was recognized as an East Region Second-Team All-American by the American Hockey Coaches Association, a First-Team All-SUNYAC selection, and the SUNY Chancellor's Scholar-Athlete of the Year. In his senior season, Whitelaw captained the Lakers and earned both the 2013 Oswego State Male Student-Athlete of the Year and the prestigious SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence. Statistically, Whitelaw ranks among the program's all-time scoring leaders. In 110 career games, he recorded 53 goals and 86 assists for 139 points, placing him tied for 28th in the Lakers' history books.

SUNY Oswego's men's ice hockey program has a long-standing history of success within NCAA Division III, with a focus on competitive excellence, sportsmanship, and student-athlete achievement