University of Maine hires Robert Walsh as head coach

The University of Maine announced the hiring of Robert Walsh on Wednesday. Walsh joins the Black Bears from Rhode Island College, and will replace the fired Ted Woodward. 

During his nine-year tenure with Rhode Island, Walsh guided the Anchormen to an overall record of 204-63 and eight consecutive appearances in the NCAA Division III Tournament. 

Maine's athletic director Karlton Creech announced the hiring on the school's athletics website, praising Walsh's accomplishments. 

I am excited to welcome Coach Bob Walsh to the Black Bear Family.

His time at Rhode Island College has been the most successful in the history of the program. In addition to his head coaching experience, Bob has 11 years of experience as a Division I assistant at Providence College, the University of San Diego, and Iona College. Bob is a true student and teacher of the game of basketball, and shares his passion for leadership through his Dynamic Leadership Academy. Coach Walsh is highly respected in the college basketball community and ready for the challenge of leading and rebuilding UMaine's Division I program.

Maine endured a disappointing 2013-14 season, which saw the Black Bears at one point lose eight in a row.