Monday, June 13, 2011
Behind the Bench: Rick Bennett
In Behind the Bench, College Hockey, Inc. will introduce college hockey head coaches from around the country and provide some insight into their approach, their program and their background, in their own words.
Our fifth subject is Union’s Rick Bennett, who takes over the top job in 2011-12 after assisting Nate Leaman with the Dutchmen.
WHAT IS …
The best way to describe your coaching style?
Tough but fair.
Your favorite part of coaching?
The practices
Your least favorite part of coaching?
Paperwork
The most important thing your assistant coaches do for you?
Recruit
Your favorite thing about college hockey?
The players’ love for the game.
Your favorite place on campus outside the rink?
Starbucks
Something unique or noteworthy about your school?
Nott Memorial – 16 sided building
The best advice you could give a young player hoping to make Division I?
Work harder than your teammates.
The best advice you would give parents of a young hockey player?
Honesty
The best advice you ever got?
Play hard and keep your head up.
The most important trait you look for in a player?
Character
A game you look forward to each year?
RPI
WHO IS?
Your biggest coaching influence?
Mike McShane
An NHL coach you admire?
Mike Babcock
A coach you admire outside of hockey?
Terry Francona
A former player you’re particularly proud of?
Jeff Serowik
An unsung hero in your program (on or off the ice)?
Brock Matheson
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ?
Author
Steve Jamison
Book
Wooden – A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court
TV show
Miami Vice
Movie
Jaws
Web site
USCHO.com
Vacation spot
Myrtle Beach
Pro team
Dallas Cowboys
Sport besides hockey
Football
Time of year
Summer
Quote
“There is a choice you have to make, in everything you do. And you must always keep in mind the choice you make, makes you.”