The Huskie Hockey program has long been known for producing exceptional student athletes who go on to achieve great success in their careers. However, it's not just on the ice where these individuals excel. Many Huskie alumni have also found their calling in coaching, with several making their mark in the National Hockey League.
One notable alumnus who transitioned from coaching the Huskies in 1969-70 to the NHL is Dave Chambers. He went on to become an assistant coach for the Minnesota North Stars in 1989 then the head coach of the Quebec Nordiques from 1990 to 1992.
Another noteworthy figure in the NHL coaching ranks is Dave Dunn. Dunn, who played Huskie hockey from 1966 to 1970, made his mark as a player in the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks and the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1973 to 1976. After his playing career, Dunn transitioned into coaching and became an assistant coach for the Vancouver Canucks from 1978 to 1981.
Dave King, a former player for the Huskies from 1969 to 1972, found success in coaching at the university, international, and professional level. After his playing days, King returned to coach the Huskies from 1979 to 1983. After coaching at the university level, he went on to coach the Canadian National Team for 9 years. He then made the leap to the NHL, where he coached teams such as the Calgary Flames, Montreal Canadiens, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Phoenix Coyotes. King's coaching prowess was also recognized on the international stage, as he earned an Olympic Silver Medal in 1992 and an Olympic Bronze Medal in 2018.
Willie Desjardins, who played Huskie hockey from 1978 to 1983, has made a name for himself as a successful NHL coach. He got his first NHL coaching opportunity when he was hired as the head coach of the Vancouver Canucks from 2014-2017. After his time with the Canucks, he became the head coach for the Los Angeles Kings in 2018-19. Like King, Desjardins also earned an Olympic Bronze Medal in 2018.
The list of Huskie Hockey alumni turned NHL coaches goes on, with names like Mike Babcock and Todd McLellan. Babcock, a player for the Huskies in 1981-82, went on to achieve remarkable success as an NHL coach. He led the Anaheim Ducks, Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Columbus Blue Jackets behind the bench. Babcock's coaching brilliance resulted in a Stanley Cup Championship in 2007-2008 and Olympic Gold Medals in 2010 and 2014.
Similarly, Todd McLellan, who played for the Huskies during the 1990-91 season, has established himself as a prominent figure in the NHL coaching fraternity. McLellan coached the Detroit Red Wings, San Jose Sharks, Edmonton Oilers, and Los Angeles Kings. He, too, hoisted the Stanley Cup in 2007-2008.
Glen Gulutzan, a Huskies player from 1992 to 1994, deserves great recognition for his coaching endeavors. Gulutzan made his way to the NHL as a coach for the Dallas Stars, Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, and is now currently working as the assistant coach for the Edmonton Oilers, further exemplifying the program's ability to produce talented individuals who excel both on and off the ice.
The Huskie Hockey program's legacy extends beyond developing exceptional student athletes. Through their contributions to the NHL coaching ranks, alumni like Dave Chambers, Dave Dunn, Dave King, Willie Desjardins, Mike Babcock, Todd McLellan, and Glen Gulutzan have left an indelible mark on the sport. Their achievements are a testament to the program's commitment to fostering talent and producing well-rounded individuals who continue to make a significant impact in the world of hockey.
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