Ernie (Punch) McLean, the legendary junior hockey coach whose discipline and leadership shaped countless players’ careers, passed away at the age of 93 on May 8. His life was a testament to resilience and passion, culminating in his impactful tenure with the New Westminster Bruins in British Columbia. McLean’s journey from the coal mines of Saskatchewan to the ice rink serves as a remarkable narrative of dedication in the world of Canadian hockey.
A Remarkable Coaching Career
McLean’s coaching career began in the 1960s with the Estevan Bruins in Saskatchewan, where he quickly made a name for himself by leading the team to a league championship in 1968. In 1971, he co-owned the Bruins as they relocated to New Westminster, where his impact was felt almost immediately. Under his guidance, the team dominated the Western Hockey League (WHL), clinching four consecutive Presidents Cup titles from 1975 to 1978 and securing two Memorial Cup championships in 1977 and 1978.
Fans flocked to the Queen’s Park Arena, captivated by the fierce, engaging style of hockey that characterised McLean’s teams. The atmosphere was electric, as Coquitlam city councillor Craig Hodge fondly recalled: “When you walked toward the arena on a Friday night, you’d hear the rumbling energy coming out of the building.”
The Man Behind the Legend
Punch McLean was not just a coach; he was a mentor who instilled confidence and resilience in his players. Known for his tough-love approach, he inspired many to realise their potential on and off the ice. Among his notable protégés was Barry Beck, who, in a heartfelt tribute, credited McLean with turning his life around. “He asked me what I wanted to be, broke me down into tears, then built me back up again,” Beck reflected. “When I left that boat, I wanted to play hockey.” Beck went on to enjoy a successful NHL career, highlighting McLean’s profound influence.
Over his extensive coaching career, McLean amassed a record of 548 wins in 1,067 WHL games, earning him a place in the BC Hockey Hall of Fame and the WHL’s Governors Award in 2005. His legacy extended far beyond numbers and accolades, as many players flourished under his guidance, transitioning to the NHL and maintaining values instilled by McLean.
A Life of Adventure and Resilience
Beyond the rink, McLean’s life was marked by adventure and tenacity. In 2009, while prospecting for gold near Dease Lake, he fell down a crevasse but emerged unscathed after four days of navigating the wilderness. His survival instincts shone through as he relied solely on water to sustain himself. “Whenever I got to a point where I felt hungry, I got a good drink of water, and that sufficed me,” he recounted after his rescue.
His adventurous spirit was further showcased when, in 1970, he survived a serious plane crash that left him with a reconstructed jaw and a glass eye. McLean’s resolve in the face of adversity became a defining element of his character, resonating with those who knew him.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his many successes, McLean faced challenges that tested his career. A notorious incident in 1979, where his team was involved in a brawl that resulted in multiple players being charged with common assault, shook the local hockey community. McLean publicly apologised, reflecting on the evolving nature of the sport and his own coaching philosophy. “Maybe the game has gone by me,” he admitted at the time. “It’s tough to change your thinking. The game is changing; maybe I haven’t changed with it.”
After a disappointing season in 1980, McLean stepped away from coaching, with the Bruins later sold to businessman Nelson Skalbania. He made a brief return to the bench in the mid-1980s, but his last season ended with just 18 wins. While the latter part of his career was not as illustrious, it did not overshadow the immense impact he had made.
Why it Matters
Punch McLean’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Canadian junior hockey. His distinctive coaching style, ability to connect with players, and resilience in the face of adversity are qualities that will be remembered by all who were touched by his presence. McLean not only shaped the future of many players but also set a standard for what it means to be a mentor in sports. The echoes of his influence will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who donned the Bruins jersey, ensuring that his spirit endures in the game he loved.
