Ex-NHLer to coach in new CIHL
Dennis Maruk, who played in the Ontario Hockey League and the National Hockey League with distinction, has been hired as head coach of the Milton Battle Arts Cobras of the new Canadian International Hockey League.
The 58-year old Maruk was a high-scoring forward with the London Knights over three full Ontario Hockey League seasons, tallying 66 goals in 65 games during the 1974-1975 campaign alone.
The 5-foot-8 speedster then went on to play in 922 NHL games — playoffs included — scoring 370 goals, 544 assists, 914 points while suiting up for the California Golden Seals, Cleveland Barons, Minnesota North Stars and Washington Capitals.
During a spectacular 1981-1982 NHL season with Washington, Maruk had 60 goals, 76 assists, 136 points.
Maruk has coached at the minor-pro and junior hockey levels for a number of years.
In taking the coaching position with Milton, Maruk becomes part of the new CIHL, an Ontario-based junior league that begins play effective the upcoming 2014-2015 season.
Maruk offered some of what he hopes to bring to Milton and the CIHL.
“I am looking forward to working in the CIHL in Milton this coming season,” Maruk told HockeyNewsNorth.com.
“I look forward to working with these young players and developing them into becoming better hockey players,” Maruk added. “I have a lot to offer both on and off the ice to improve their opportunities to reach the highest level.
“Teaching and communication and hard work will make Milton a successful franchise and I look forward to the challenge,” he concluded.
this is a great coup for a new league!
Wow this is really good for the CIHL and the Milton franchise. Maruk had the Fu Manchu ‘stache when he played for Washington I recall vividly.
That is awesome news that would be two ex NHL’ers coaching in the league now.
The two NHL coaches in the CIHL used to play against each other and on the same team, that will help build a friendly rivalry. This now makes 3 NHL Stars involved in the CIHL. How could you not be excited to watch this league, its going to be epic.
Just wondering Randy. Wasn’t the CIHL supposed to announce the names of two new teams yesterday?
I thought there was supposed to be some more team announcements starting yesterday?
collingwood ice is sixth team.