WATERLOO, Ont. - Laurier Athletics & Recreation announced today that Justin Serresse has concluded his tenure as the men's basketball program's head coach.

Serresse, who had been on temporary leave from the Golden Hawks since the start of the last season after signing on as an assistant coach with the NBA G League's Raptors 905, has recently agreed to an extension with the affiliate of the Toronto Raptors.

He departs Laurier following eight years (and seven seasons) with the Golden Hawks and a 127-92 (.580) overall record. He leaves the Golden Hawks as the second-winningest coach in program history.

"I will always be grateful for the opportunity Laurier gave me," Serresse said. "I'm proud of what we accomplished and leave with nothing but appreciation for the next chapter in my career."

"I want to thank all the student-athletes who made this experience meaningful and unforgettable. Coaching all of them not only pushed the program forward but also made me a better coach and person."

"To the Laurier Athletics department, thank you for your support since day one - especially (former athletic director) Peter Baxter, who hired me, and (associate director) Ryan Lannan, who stood by me throughout the journey. Your belief in me never went unnoticed."

"To my coaching staff, thank you for your dedication, loyalty, and countless sacrifices. A special thanks to Chuder Teny, Ankit Wedera, and Brandon Emmanuel, who were instrumental throughout the years. We couldn't have built what we did without your commitment and belief in our vision."

Serresse led the Golden Hawks on back-to-back runs to the OUA semifinals in 2018-19 and 2019-20, with the 18-6 record in the former being the best under his tenure. 

After his first season with the Golden Hawks, the program had double-digit win totals for the next six straight seasons.

"Coach Serresse's contributions to our men's basketball program, Laurier, and our surrounding community will always be held in the highest regard," said Ryan Lannan, Laurier's Associate Director of Interuniversity Sport Programs.

"He has always championed the student-athlete experience on and off the court while maintaining the standard of excellence aligned with our mission, vision and values."

"His impact will remain part of our culture for years to come and he will no doubt carry a significant impact in his contribution at the professional level. He will always be a Golden Hawk."

A national search is currently underway to find the 11th head coach in program history after Cavell Johnson filled the role on an interim basis this past season.