Ernie ‘Punch’ McLean, a towering figure in the junior hockey world and a beloved coach, passed away on May 8 at the age of 93. His life, filled with remarkable highs and turbulent lows, came to an end following a tragic car accident near Dease Lake in the Northern Interior of British Columbia. McLean’s legacy as a coach of the New Westminster Bruins, where he led the team to significant victories and left an indelible mark on the sport, will not soon be forgotten.
A Life Shaped by Hockey
Born on November 3, 1932, in Estevan, Saskatchewan, McLean was the son of a coal miner and grew up in humble beginnings. His introduction to ice skating came at the age of 12, and by 19, he was making waves in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League. However, it was his coaching career that solidified his reputation. Starting in the 1960s, he quickly became known for his tough yet nurturing coaching style.
As co-owner and head coach of the New Westminster Bruins, McLean directed the team to four consecutive Presidents Cup titles from 1975 to 1978, as well as two prestigious Memorial Cup championships in 1977 and 1978. His aggressive coaching style paralleled the rough-and-tumble brand of hockey that captivated fans during that era. Craig Hodge, a city councillor in Coquitlam and former photographer, recalled the electric atmosphere at Queen’s Park Arena: “When you walked toward the arena on a Friday night, you’d hear the rumbling energy coming out of the building.”
Memorable Moments and Controversies
McLean’s coaching tenure was not without its controversies. Known for his fiery temperament, he once famously tossed a metal garbage can onto the ice in frustration over a missed call, a moment that became emblematic of his passionate nature. Another incident involved him snatching a linesman’s toupee during a game, showcasing his unpredictable but entertaining antics.
Despite some turbulent moments, including a suspension following a significant on-ice brawl involving his players, McLean’s focus remained on player development. He took immense pride in mentoring young talents who would eventually make their mark in the National Hockey League (NHL), including notable names like Barry Beck, who credited McLean with transforming his life and career.
“Punch invited me out to his boat, and we did some real soul searching about my problem,” Beck recounted. “When I left that boat, I wanted to play hockey.” His impact on his players went beyond the rink; McLean instilled confidence and a sense of camaraderie, helping to shape not just athletes but young men of character.
A Legacy of Resilience and Adventure
In 2009, after retiring from coaching, McLean’s adventurous spirit led him to become a gold prospector in the mountains near Dease Lake. In a testament to his resilience, he survived a harrowing four-day ordeal after getting lost in the wilderness. “Whenever I got to a point where I felt hungry, I got a good drink of water and that sufficed me,” he reflected after being rescued, highlighting his unyielding determination.
His life was filled with colourful stories, including a near-fatal plane crash in 1970 that left him with significant injuries yet did not dampen his adventurous spirit. McLean’s tenacity was well-known, and he continued to be a local legend long after his coaching days ended.
Community Recognition and Final Days
Just days before his passing, the city of New Westminster celebrated McLean’s contributions to hockey and the community with plans to erect a statue in his honour. “Punch McLean put New Westminster on the map when it comes to hockey,” remarked city councillor Daniel Fontaine, further underscoring the profound impact he had on the local community.
Predeceased by his wife, Francis Grace McLean, he leaves behind his sons, Brian and Brent, as well as three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. McLean’s legacy as a coach, mentor, and community figure will resonate for generations.
Why it Matters
Punch McLean’s life story is one of resilience, passion, and dedication to both hockey and the young players he inspired. His approach to coaching, characterised by a blend of tough love and genuine care, not only shaped the careers of many athletes but also instilled values that extend beyond the rink. In a time when sports are often viewed through a lens of competition alone, McLean’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of mentorship, community, and the enduring spirit of the game. The loss of such a vibrant personality leaves a void not just in the world of hockey but in the hearts of those who knew him and were touched by his unique journey.
