University of Minnesota Athletics
Gopher Hockey Legend Herb Brooks Dies in Car Accident
8/11/2003 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
Brooks, a native of Shoreview, Minn., would go on to coach in the National Hockey League for the New York Rangers (1981-85), Minnesota North Stars (1987-88), New Jersey Devils (1992-93) and Pittsburgh Penguins (1999-2000). In 2002, Brooks led the United States Olympic hockey team to a silver medal at the Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Utah. Brooks was elected to the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in 1990 and the International Ice Hockey Federation Hall of Fame in 1999.
"This is a huge loss, not only for the University, but more importantly for the entire state of Minnesota. When you think of hockey in this state, you think of Herb Brooks. He was such a positive influence and touched so many people that we can't truly feel the weight of his loss. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and all the lives he touched throughout this great state of hockey," said University of Minnesota Director of Athletics Joel Maturi.
"This is tragic loss for the entire Minnesota hockey family," said University of Minnesota hockey coach Don Lucia. "He was a pioneer for Minnesota's `Pride on Ice.' When you think of the legends of Golden Gopher hockey, you think of John Mariucci, John Mayasich and Herb Brooks. He was an inspiration to me and my thoughts are with his family."