CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – Ronn Tomassoni was named Monday to succeed Bill Cleary as men’s hockey coach at Harvard University.

Tomassoni, 31, had been an assistant under Cleary since 1981, and was an associated coach since 1987. Tomassoni has been credited with recruiting many of the players who helped the Crimson win the NCAA Division I tournament in 1989.

“I’m delighted to have Ronn take over the helm of the hockey program,” said Cleary, who gave up the job after his 19th season to become Harvard athletic director.

“He has been an integral part of the program during his eight years as assistant and a big part of Harvard’s success over the years. I am confident he will do an outstanding job,” said Cleary, who was 323-196-22 as Harvard’s coach.