University of Minnesota Athletics
John Mariucci
9/6/2007 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
John Mariucci |
John Mariucci grew up on the Iron Range in Eveleth, Minn., and came to the University of Minnesota in 1938, where he starred as a defenseman on Coach Larry Armstrong's Gopher hockey team and also played offensive and defensive end on Coach Bernie Bierman's football squad. In 1940, Mariucci earned All-American honors en route to leading the Gopher Hockey team to its first AAU National Championship. In addition, Mariucci also won a National Championship on the gridiron that year as well, making it two for two.
From there, Mariucci joined the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks, where his toughness made him a big fan favorite in the Windy City. Mariucci, who also served in the U.S. Coast Guard in New York for a brief stint, made history in 1947 when he became the first American-born player ever to captain an NHL team.
Mariucci came home in 1952 to take over as the head coach of the Gopher Hockey team. he would remain until 1966, posting a record of 207-142-15, including conference championships in 1953 and 1954, as well as four NCAA playoff appearances. In addition, he also guided the Americans to the silver medal in the 1956 Olympics in Cortina, Italy.
From there, Mariucci went on to work with the NHL's expansion Minnesota North Stars. Among his many honors and accolades, Mariucci is a member of both the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth as well as the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto; and is also a recipient of the NHL's prestigious Lester Patrick Award for his contributions to U.S. hockey. Furthermore, on March 2, 1985, the U of M renamed the hockey half of Williams Arena as Mariucci Arena, in his honor. It was a fitting tribute to the "Godfather of Minnesota Hockey."
M Club Hall of Fame
