Marc Crawford, Canadian ice hockey player and coach

Marc Crawford: A Renowned Canadian Ice Hockey Coach and Stanley Cup Champion

Marc Joseph John Crawford, born on February 13, 1961, is a highly respected Canadian figure in professional ice hockey, renowned for his extensive career both as a successful coach and a former player. With a career spanning several decades, Crawford has solidified his reputation as one of the National Hockey League's (NHL) most experienced and influential bench bosses.

A Storied Coaching Career in the NHL and Beyond

Crawford's coaching journey is marked by significant achievements, most notably his triumphant leadership of the Colorado Avalanche to a Stanley Cup championship in 1996. This victory cemented his place in hockey history, showcasing his strategic acumen and ability to guide elite talent to ultimate success. Beyond his iconic tenure with the Avalanche, Crawford has held head coaching positions with several other prominent NHL franchises, including the Vancouver Canucks, Dallas Stars, Los Angeles Kings, Ottawa Senators, and Columbus Blue Jackets. His diverse coaching portfolio also includes an impactful period coaching the ZSC Lions in Switzerland's National League, where he further honed his leadership skills and adapted to different hockey cultures.

The 1996 Stanley Cup Triumph with the Colorado Avalanche

The 1996 Stanley Cup win with the Colorado Avalanche stands as a pinnacle in Marc Crawford's coaching career. In only their first season after relocating from Quebec City, Crawford expertly guided a star-studded Avalanche roster, featuring legendary players like Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, and Patrick Roy, to hockey's ultimate prize. This historic achievement was a testament to his coaching prowess, his ability to build a winning culture, and his skill in managing a roster of future Hall of Famers, culminating in a memorable series victory.

From Player to Coach: Marc Crawford's NHL Beginnings

Before embarking on his illustrious coaching path, Marc Crawford was a professional ice hockey forward himself. Drafted 40th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft, he spent his entire NHL playing career with the Canucks. While his playing career, which spanned parts of two seasons from 1981 to 1983, was relatively brief with 50 games played and 19 points (5 goals, 14 assists), it provided him with invaluable firsthand experience of the professional game. This foundational understanding from a player's perspective undoubtedly contributed to his later success as a coach, allowing him to relate to and motivate his players effectively.

Current Role: Assistant Coach with the Chicago Blackhawks

Currently, Marc Crawford continues to contribute his vast expertise to the National Hockey League as an assistant coach with the Chicago Blackhawks. In this crucial role, he plays a significant part in developing team strategies, working directly with players to refine their skills and improve their on-ice performance, and providing essential support and counsel to the head coach. His extensive experience, strategic insights, and deep understanding of the game's nuances make him a valuable asset to the Blackhawks' coaching staff as they navigate the challenges of the highly competitive NHL season.

Frequently Asked Questions about Marc Crawford

• When was Marc Crawford born?

  Marc Joseph John Crawford was born on February 13, 1961.

• Which team did Marc Crawford win the Stanley Cup with as head coach?

  He led the Colorado Avalanche to the Stanley Cup championship in 1996, during the team's inaugural season in Colorado.

• What is Marc Crawford's current role in the NHL?

  As of now, he serves as an assistant coach for the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League.

• Did Marc Crawford play in the NHL?

  Yes, before becoming a coach, he played as a professional ice hockey forward for the Vancouver Canucks for parts of two seasons (1981-1983).

• What other NHL teams has Marc Crawford coached as a head coach?

  Besides the Colorado Avalanche, he has been the head coach for the Vancouver Canucks, Dallas Stars, Los Angeles Kings, Ottawa Senators, and Columbus Blue Jackets.