Union men's hockey coach Rick Bennett stepped down Friday following an internal investigation into his coaching practices, the college announced in a press release.

Bennett, who led the Dutchmen for the past 11 seasons, was placed on leave Jan. 20 after an allegation was made about his coaching style and practices, the school said.

Assistant coach John Ronan was named interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

Under Bennett, Union won the NCAA national championship in 2014, the only title in program history.

“Coach Bennett has been synonymous with Union hockey over the past 17 years and has built a program of which we all can be proud,” Union College Athletic Director Jim McLaughlin said. “This resolution is the best path forward for both Coach Bennett and our men’s hockey program. Our number one priority is to fully support our student-athletes.”

Union is 8-12-3 (6-7-1) and in fifth place in the ECAC this season.

“I arrived at this decision because I felt it is in the best interest of Union College hockey. That has always been at the forefront of my thoughts,” Bennett said in the statement provided by the college. “I wish the program all the best this season and in the future.”