STEVENS POINT - UW-Stevens Point head men's hockey coach Wil Nichol has announced the promotion of Marcus Paulson (Eden Prairie, MN/Eden Prairie) from goalie coach to assistant coach and the addition of Tommy Upton as an assistant coach/strength and conditioning coach.

Paulson replaces Anthony Noreen, who left to accept a job as the top assistant with the Youngstown Phantoms of the United States Hockey League.

“Marcus will continue to be our goalie coach, but he is ready to take on more responsibilities as well,” said Nichol. “He will become more involved in the recruiting and day to day aspects of the program. He has a great passion for the game, he is an incredibly hard worker and he relates well to the players. Marcus Paulson (Eden Prairie, MN/Eden Prairie) is on the right track to be a great coach in this league.”

Upton, who turned down an opportunity to play minor pro in Columbus, Georgia, will also join the Pointers staff.

“Tommy Upton reminds me a lot of Anthony Noreen three years ago,” said Nichol. “He is a polished young man, has a great mind for the game, he is a natural leader and he is going to be a great coach as well. Tommy will also cover a lot for us in the strength and conditioning aspect as that is his specialty.”

Prior to spending last year as the goalie coach, Paulson, a native of Eden Praire, Minn., played in 69 career games over his four years as a player at UWSP. He logged over 3,400 minutes in goal with 1,500 career saves and 23 wins.

Upton wrapped up his stellar four year career with the Pointers in 2010, serving as co-captain this past season. The defenseman played in 87 career games with the purple and gold, collecting 11 career assists and 13 points.

“At this level, you are fortunate to have one qualified assistant coach,” said Nichol. “We feel very lucky to have both Tommy and Marcus on staff for the 2010-11 season.”

The Pointers open the 2010-11 campaign at K.B. Willett Arena against Lawrence University on October 23.