Dave Chambers, Canadian ice hockey player and coach

Dave Chambers, born on May 7, 1940, in the community of Leaside, Ontario, stands as a figure profoundly influential in Canadian ice hockey. His multifaceted career, spanning roles as a player, an esteemed coach at various levels, a dedicated educator, and a prolific author, has left an indelible mark on the sport. While perhaps most widely known for his tenure as head coach of the Quebec Nordiques in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1990 to 1991, his contributions extend far beyond professional hockey, particularly in the realm of university and junior development.

Chambers’ journey in hockey began on the ice as a player, laying the groundwork for his future coaching philosophy. He honed his skills in the competitive junior hockey circuit of the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA), suiting up for the Guelph Biltmores and the storied Toronto St. Michael's Majors. This period, characteristic of Canadian hockey development, saw young players balance intense competition with their formative years. He then continued his playing career at the university level, representing both the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia, before a stint in senior hockey. These experiences provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the game from a player's perspective, across different stages of development.

A Distinguished Career on the Bench

Transitioning from player to coach, Dave Chambers embarked on a remarkable career that would shape countless young athletes and contribute significantly to hockey's instructional evolution. His early coaching roles included positions at the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Guelph, demonstrating his commitment to the collegiate game, which was then experiencing an "early development of the Canadian National team" program, signifying a growing focus on structured player development.

University Coaching Success and Milestones

His impressive track record in university hockey truly began to shine during his two seasons at Ohio State University from 1970 to 1972. There, he quickly made an impact, guiding his team to a Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) championship in 1972. To this day, Chambers holds the distinction of being the winningest coach in Ohio State history by winning percentage, a testament to his immediate success and strategic acumen. Following his time in Columbus, he returned to his native Toronto to take the helm at York University, where he built a veritable dynasty. Under his leadership, York University's teams clinched three division championships, three Ontario Championships, and notably, one Canadian championship, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in university hockey. Across his 14 years of university coaching, Chambers amassed an exceptional record of 334 wins against only 110 losses, yielding an impressive winning percentage of .750. This era also saw him recognized with three Coach of the Year awards, underscoring his consistent excellence and the respect he commanded from his peers.

From Junior Leagues to International Gold

Chambers' coaching prowess wasn't confined to the university ranks. He ventured into the highly competitive junior league, taking on a coaching position with the Toronto Marlboros. His impact was immediate, earning him the prestigious OHL Matt Leyden Trophy as Coach of the Year in 1980, an award recognizing the Ontario Hockey League's top coach. His influence also extended to the international stage, a significant honor for any Canadian hockey figure. In 1988, he guided the Canadian team to a gold medal victory at the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships held in Moscow, a momentous achievement that showcased his ability to prepare and inspire elite young talent under high-pressure circumstances.

The National Hockey League Chapter

Eventually, Chambers' extensive experience and success paved his way to the highest level of professional hockey. He first served as an assistant coach with the Minnesota North Stars in the NHL, gaining valuable insights into the intricacies of the professional game. This experience culminated in his appointment as the head coach of the Quebec Nordiques, where he led the team from 1990 to 1991. While his tenure in the NHL was relatively brief, it marked a significant capstone to a career characterized by coaching excellence across numerous levels of the sport.

A Legacy of Education and Recognition

Beyond the ice and the bench, Dave Chambers has profoundly influenced hockey through his written word. He has authored six books and numerous articles, delving into various aspects of ice hockey, advanced training methods, and effective coaching strategies. His work has gained international acclaim, with two of his seminal books—The Hockey Drill Book, published by Human Kinetics Pub., and Coaching: the Art and Science, published by Firefly Books—translated and published by the Russian Sport Federation. This international recognition is a testament to the universal appeal and practical value of his insights for hockey development worldwide.

Chambers' remarkable career and lasting impact have been honored with induction into multiple prestigious institutions. He was welcomed into the Sports Hall of Fame at York University in 2006, recognizing his transformative leadership there. Later, in 2012, the University of British Columbia also inducted him into their Sports Hall of Fame, acknowledging his contributions as a player and his broader influence on the sport. These inductions serve as fitting tributes to a man whose dedication to ice hockey has touched every level of the game, from junior development to international competition and professional play, solidifying his place as a true Canadian hockey luminary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dave Chambers primarily known for?

Dave Chambers is primarily known as a highly successful Canadian ice hockey coach, particularly recognized for his significant achievements in university hockey, his gold-medal win at the World Junior Championships, and his brief tenure as an NHL head coach.

What teams did Dave Chambers coach in the National Hockey League (NHL)?

Dave Chambers served as an assistant coach for the Minnesota North Stars and was the head coach of the Quebec Nordiques from 1990 to 1991.

What were some of Dave Chambers' major achievements in university hockey?

At Ohio State University, he holds the record for the winningest coach by winning percentage and won a CCHA championship in 1972. At York University, his teams won three division championships, three Ontario Championships, and one Canadian championship. Over 14 years, his university coaching record was 334 wins and 110 losses (.750 winning percentage), and he earned three Coach of the Year awards.

Did Dave Chambers coach internationally?

Yes, Dave Chambers coached the Canadian team that won the gold medal at the 1988 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships in Moscow.

Has Dave Chambers authored any books on hockey?

Indeed, Dave Chambers has authored six books and numerous articles on ice hockey, training methods, and coaching. Two of his books, "The Hockey Drill Book" and "Coaching: the Art and Science," have been translated and published by the Russian Sport Federation.

Where has Dave Chambers been inducted into a Hall of Fame?

Dave Chambers was inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame at York University in 2006 and the University of British Columbia in 2012, recognizing his extensive contributions to the sport.