Ernie “Punch” McLean, a towering figure in Canadian junior hockey, passed away on May 8 at the age of 93 following a tragic car accident near Dease Lake in Northern British Columbia. McLean, a coal miner’s son from Estevan, Saskatchewan, left an indelible mark on the sport as a coach and mentor, known for his fierce leadership and the loyalty he inspired in his players.
A Life of Adventure and Resilience
McLean’s life was filled with colourful stories that showcased his adventurous spirit. In 2009, at the age of 77, he experienced a harrowing survival ordeal when he fell over 20 metres down a crevasse while gold prospecting near Dease Lake. Lost in the wilderness for four days, he survived by drinking water, famously stating, “Whenever I got to a point where I felt hungry, I got a good drink of water and that sufficed me.” His survival instincts reflected the same grit he showed throughout his storied coaching career.
Coaching Career and Achievements
McLean’s coaching legacy primarily centres around his time with the New Westminster Bruins, a team he co-owned and coached in what is now the Western Hockey League (WHL). Between 1975 and 1978, he led the Bruins to four consecutive Presidents Cup titles and secured two Memorial Cup championships in 1977 and 1978. The atmosphere at Queen’s Park Arena was electric, often described as a “zoo” due to the intense, physical style of play that characterised his teams.
Craig Hodge, a city councillor and former photographer, reminisced, “When you walked toward the arena on a Friday night, you’d hear the rumbling energy coming out of the building.” McLean’s coaching style was as entertaining as it was effective, and the Bruins became a fan favourite during his tenure.
A Mentor to Many
Beyond the accolades, McLean took immense pride in developing young talent, preparing numerous players for careers in the NHL. Notable alumni include Barry Beck, who credited McLean with turning his life around during a critical juncture in his youth. Beck recounted, “Punch invited me out to his boat, and we did some real soul searching about my problem… When I left that boat, I wanted to play hockey.” This sentiment was echoed by many who played under McLean, who viewed him as both a coach and a father figure.
McLean’s influence extended to the international stage as well, where he coached a Canadian junior team to a bronze medal at the 1978 World Championships, featuring a young Wayne Gretzky. Initially sceptical about Gretzky’s ability to compete at such a high level, McLean changed his mind after witnessing the young star’s exceptional talent during a tryout.
Controversies and Reflection
While McLean’s career was marked by significant achievements, it also faced controversies. A notable incident occurred in March 1979, when seven of his players were involved in a violent brawl against the Portland Winter Hawks, leading to legal ramifications and a suspension for McLean. This incident forced him to reflect on his coaching philosophy. “Maybe the game has gone by me. I’m an old horse… It’s tough to change your thinking,” he admitted at the time.
After the Bruins missed the playoffs in 1980, McLean stepped away from coaching, though he briefly returned to the role in the mid-1980s. His final season was not one of triumph, but McLean’s impact on the sport and the players he mentored resonated far beyond his wins and losses.
A Lasting Legacy
Born on November 3, 1932, McLean’s upbringing in a coal miner’s family shaped his tough exterior and tenacious spirit. His early fascination with hockey led to a brief playing career before transitioning into coaching. Over the decades, he became a beloved figure in New Westminster and the broader hockey community. He was inducted into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame and received the WHL Governors Award in 2005, recognising his contributions to the sport.
Just days before his passing, McLean was celebrated for his legacy, with plans for a statue in New Westminster to honour his contributions to hockey in the region. Councillor Daniel Fontaine remarked, “Punch McLean put New Westminster on the map when it comes to hockey.”
Punch McLean is survived by his sons, Brian and Brent, along with three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those he inspired.
Why it Matters
Punch McLean’s life and career highlight the profound impact a coach can have on young athletes, shaping not just their skills on the ice but their character off it. His commitment to developing players and his ability to inspire loyalty and resilience are qualities that resonate deeply within the sporting community. In a time when hockey is evolving, McLean’s influence serves as a reminder of the sport’s rich history and the personal connections that define it.
