Ernie “Punch” McLean, the legendary coach who transformed junior hockey in British Columbia, passed away on May 8 at the age of 93. His remarkable life, characterised by a passion for the sport and an indomitable spirit, concluded tragically when he was involved in a single-vehicle accident near Dease Lake in Northern British Columbia. McLean’s legacy as a coach, mentor, and community figure endures, as he remains a cherished part of the hockey narrative in Canada.
A Life of Adventure and Resilience
Born on November 3, 1932, in Estevan, Saskatchewan, McLean was the second of four boys in a coal mining family. He often recounted that he was born in a mine shaft due to the cold conditions of the mining shacks. This tough upbringing shaped the man who would later become a formidable force in junior hockey. At the age of 12, he laced up his first pair of skates, and by 19, he was playing for the Humboldt Indians in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.
McLean’s coaching career began in the 1960s with the Estevan Bruins, where he co-owned the team and led them to a league title in 1968. His journey continued when he moved to New Westminster in 1971, where he co-owned the New Westminster Bruins and established a reputation for creating a competitive and entertaining team in what is now the Western Hockey League.
Triumphs on the Ice
Under McLean’s guidance, the New Westminster Bruins achieved significant success, clinching four consecutive Presidents Cup titles from 1975 to 1978 and securing Memorial Cup victories in 1977 and 1978. His teams became known for their tough, aggressive style of play, reminiscent of the rough-and-tumble hockey culture that prevailed during that era.
Craig Hodge, a city councillor and former photographer for the local newspaper, reminisced about the electric atmosphere at Queen’s Park Arena on game nights. “You could feel the energy as you approached the arena, with steam rising off the roof on cold nights,” he recalled. Hodge’s memories reflect the vibrant community spirit that McLean fostered through his coaching.
A Mentor to Many
Beyond the accolades, McLean was deeply committed to nurturing young talent. He mentored numerous players, many of whom went on to make their mark in the National Hockey League (NHL). Among them were Dallas Smith, Ron Greschner, and Barry Beck, who credited McLean with changing the trajectory of his life. Beck, who faced difficulties during his youth, remembered a pivotal moment spent on McLean’s boat discussing his future. “He broke me down into tears, then built me back up again. When I left that boat, I wanted to play hockey,” Beck shared, highlighting McLean’s unique ability to inspire confidence in his players.
His coaching extended beyond the ice, as he instilled values of teamwork and perseverance in his athletes. Patrick Singh, a friend and composer of “The Ballad of Punch McLean,” noted that McLean’s most significant achievement was making his players believe in themselves.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his successes, McLean’s career was not without controversy. A notable incident occurred in 1979 when several of his players engaged in a brawl during a season-ending game, leading to legal repercussions and a suspension for McLean. This incident prompted him to reflect on the evolving nature of the game and his own approach to coaching. “Maybe the game has gone by me. It’s tough to change your thinking,” he admitted, demonstrating his self-awareness and willingness to adapt.
After selling the Bruins in 1980, McLean briefly returned to coaching, but his later years were marked by a shift away from the ice. He engaged in gold prospecting and continued to embrace life’s adventures, including a harrowing experience in 2009 when he survived being lost in the wilderness for four days.
Why it Matters
Punch McLean’s impact on junior hockey in Canada extends far beyond his impressive record. He shaped the lives of countless young players, instilling in them not only skills for the game but also the values of resilience and camaraderie. As the community mourns his passing, McLean’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations, reminding us of the profound role sports figures can play in nurturing talent and fostering community spirit. His story serves as a testament to the enduring power of mentorship in the world of athletics and the indelible mark one individual can leave on the lives of many.