Mark Reeds, Canadian-American ice hockey player and coach (d. 2015)
Mark Allen Reeds, born on January 24, 1960, in Toronto, Ontario, and raised in Burlington, Ontario, was a respected Canadian figure in professional ice hockey who left an indelible mark both as an National Hockey League (NHL) player and a dedicated coach. He passed away on April 14, 2015, at the age of 55, while serving as an assistant coach for the Ottawa Senators.
Mark Reeds: A Dual Legacy in Ice Hockey
Mark Allen Reeds (January 24, 1960 – April 14, 2015) was a prominent Canadian professional ice hockey coach and a former player whose career spanned several decades, influencing the sport at both playing and coaching levels. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Reeds spent his formative years in Burlington, Ontario, before embarking on a professional journey that saw him contribute significantly to the National Hockey League (NHL) and various developmental leagues.
Playing Career in the NHL (1981-1989)
Reeds' professional playing career in the NHL ran from 1981 to 1989. Primarily a right-winger, he was known for his tenacious play, strong defensive instincts, and willingness to engage physically, making him a valuable two-way forward. He played for two distinct NHL franchises during his tenure:
- The St. Louis Blues: Reeds spent the majority of his NHL playing career with the Blues, from the 1981-82 season through the 1986-87 season. During his time in St. Louis, he played a vital role, often on checking lines, contributing to the team's defensive stability and occasional offensive bursts.
- The Hartford Whalers: He concluded his NHL playing days with the Hartford Whalers, playing parts of the 1987-88 and 1988-89 seasons.
Over 266 NHL regular season games, Mark Reeds accumulated 37 goals and 61 assists for a total of 98 points, alongside 360 penalty minutes, showcasing his commitment and resilience on the ice.
Transition to Coaching and Notable Achievements
After retiring as a player, Mark Reeds seamlessly transitioned into coaching, where his deep understanding of the game and ability to mentor players truly shone. His coaching career included significant roles at various levels:
- Junior Hockey Leadership: Reeds notably served as the head coach of the Owen Sound Attack in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), one of Canada's premier junior hockey leagues. During the 2010-11 season, he famously led the Attack to their first-ever J. Ross Robertson Cup championship, an impressive feat that solidified his reputation as an astute strategist and motivator.
- NHL Assistant Coach: His success in junior hockey paved the way for a return to the NHL, this time behind the bench. Mark Reeds joined the Ottawa Senators as an assistant coach for the 2011-12 season. He was instrumental in developing the team's defensive strategies and working with players, contributing to their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
Mark Reeds' Battle with Illness and Lasting Legacy
Tragically, while still actively contributing to the Ottawa Senators' coaching staff, Mark Reeds was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. He bravely battled the illness but succumbed to it on April 14, 2015, at the age of 55. His passing sent ripples of sadness throughout the hockey world, particularly within the Senators organization, where he was deeply respected for his unwavering professionalism, integrity, and quiet dedication.
Mark Reeds' legacy extends beyond his statistics or championship wins. He is remembered as a true hockey professional who embodied perseverance, both as a player who carved out an NHL career with grit and as a coach who inspired young athletes and helped shape professional teams. His impact on the players and colleagues he worked with remains a testament to his character and passion for the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mark Reeds
- When and where was Mark Reeds born?
- Mark Allen Reeds was born on January 24, 1960, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and grew up in Burlington, Ontario.
- Which NHL teams did Mark Reeds play for?
- Mark Reeds played as a right-winger for the St. Louis Blues (1981-1987) and the Hartford Whalers (1987-1989) during his eight-year NHL career.
- What was a significant coaching achievement for Mark Reeds?
- As head coach of the Owen Sound Attack in the OHL, Mark Reeds led the team to their first-ever J. Ross Robertson Cup championship in the 2010-11 season.
- What was Mark Reeds' role with the Ottawa Senators?
- Mark Reeds served as an assistant coach for the Ottawa Senators of the NHL, a position he held from the 2011-12 season until his passing in 2015.
- What caused Mark Reeds' death?
- Mark Reeds passed away on April 14, 2015, at the age of 55, due to esophageal cancer, while he was still actively working as an assistant coach for the Ottawa Senators.