Barrie Colts Coach Honored by CHL
Longtime Barrie Colts coach Dale Hawerchuk has been named one of the top players in Canadian Hockey League history on a prestigious new list released by the league. The announcement, made Wednesday, recognizes Hawerchuk's outstanding career as a player before he became a coach.
A Legendary Career
Hawerchuk, who played for the Cornwall Royals in the QMJHL before a stellar NHL career, is being celebrated for his contributions to junior hockey. He led the Royals to a Memorial Cup championship in 1981 and was named the CHL Player of the Year. The list honors the top 100 players in CHL history.
“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized among so many great players,” Hawerchuk said in a statement. “The CHL gave me my start, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities it provided.”
Coaching Success
Hawerchuk has been the head coach of the Barrie Colts since 2019, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. His coaching career follows a 16-year NHL playing career that saw him score over 500 goals and 1,400 points.
Fans and players alike praised the recognition. “Dale is a legend both on and off the ice,” said Colts captain Ethan Cardwell. “He’s taught us so much about the game and about life.”
The full CHL top 100 list includes other notable names like Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, and Sidney Crosby. Hawerchuk is one of several former CHL stars turned coaches to make the list.
