Ernie “Punch” McLean, a storied figure in Canadian hockey, passed away on May 8 at the age of 93 after a tragic car accident near Dease Lake in British Columbia. Known for his fiery coaching style and the deep loyalty he inspired in his players, McLean’s life was a rich tapestry woven from his humble beginnings in Saskatchewan to his commanding presence in junior hockey. His legacy as a coach and mentor, particularly with the New Westminster Bruins, will resonate in the hearts of many for years to come.
A Life of Passion and Adventure
Born on November 3, 1932, in Estevan, Saskatchewan, McLean was the second of four sons to coal miner Thomas McLean and his wife, Emily. His unusual entry into the world—delivered in a mine shaft—set the tone for a life marked by resilience and tenacity. It was not long before he discovered his passion for hockey; by age 12, he had his first pair of ice skates. His youthful agility soon caught the attention of scouts, leading to an invitation to the New York Rangers’ training camp at just 17.
In the early 1950s, McLean began his professional career with the Humboldt Indians in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, where he made a mark with impressive statistics and a reputation for toughness. His coaching journey began in the 1960s with the Estevan Bruins, where he quickly established himself as a disciplinarian who demanded excellence from his players.
The Coach Who Made History
In 1971, McLean co-owned the New Westminster Bruins, leading the team to unprecedented success. Under his direction, the Bruins clinched four consecutive Presidents Cup titles from 1975 to 1978 and captured the Memorial Cup championship in both 1977 and 1978. His coaching style was both entertaining and ruthless, drawing fans to Queen’s Park Arena for a thrilling brand of hockey.
“Friday nights were electric,” recalled Coquitlam city councillor Craig Hodge, who witnessed the fervour of the crowd. “You could feel the energy rumbling from the building, with steam rising off the roof in the cold.” McLean’s teams were notorious for their physical play, often resulting in brawls that captivated audiences and left photographers like Hodge braced for action.
Yet, McLean’s legacy extends beyond the accolades. He was instrumental in nurturing young talent, helping numerous players transition to the National Hockey League, including notable names like Barry Beck and Ron Greschner. Beck, reflecting on his time with McLean, recounted a transformative experience that steered him away from trouble and towards a successful hockey career. “Punch invited me out to his boat, and we did some real soul searching about my problem,” Beck shared. “When I left that boat, I wanted to play hockey.”
Triumphs and Tribulations
Despite his many successes, McLean’s career was not without its challenges. A notable incident occurred in 1979 when he faced suspension after a violent brawl involving his players against the Portland Winter Hawks. The brutality of the fight prompted a serious reckoning within the sport, as well as a reconsideration of McLean’s approach to coaching. “Maybe the game has gone by me,” he reflected, contemplating retirement after the incident.
His tenure with the Bruins officially ended in 1980 when he and co-owner Bill Shinske sold the team. However, McLean’s coaching journey was far from over, as he briefly returned to the bench in the mid-1980s, albeit with limited success.
McLean’s life was also marked by personal trials, including a near-fatal plane crash in 1970 that left him with significant injuries. Yet, his indomitable spirit shone through as he recovered and continued to lead an adventurous life, eventually turning to gold prospecting in his later years. His tenacity and passion for life were evident even in his final days; just two days before his passing, he was celebrated for his contributions to hockey and the community of New Westminster.
Why it Matters
Ernie “Punch” McLean was more than just a hockey coach; he was a mentor, a father figure, and a cultural icon within the sport. His unwavering belief in his players and dedication to the game reshaped the landscape of junior hockey in Canada. As the community mourns his passing, they also celebrate a legacy that embodies the spirit of resilience and the transformative power of sport. McLean’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many, a legacy that will endure long after his passing, inspiring future generations of athletes and coaches alike.
