Legendary hockey coach has tragically passed away

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Daniel Lucente
August 9, 2024 (2:51 PM)

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Legendary men's hockey coach has sadly passed away at the age of 77. Mike Sertich served as coach for the University of Minnesota Duluth men's hockey.

Mike Sertich held the position of head coach at the UMD from 1982 until 2000, and was at the helm when they won all three of their titles in 1984, 1985 and 1993. Sertich is from Virginia, Minnesota, and has a career coaching record of 350-328-44. He received the 1984 Penrose Award, which is given to the Coach of the Year as voted by the American Hockey Coaches Association. In 1985, Sertich set a club record for victories when he led the team to an outstanding record of 36-9-3.

Following his legendary run as coach of UMD, Sertich then took over the head coaching role for Michigan Tech University from 2000 to 2003. In 2010, he became a volunteer coach at the College of St. Scholastica, which he had for three seasons. He then volunteered as coach for the U.S. National Sled Hockey Team in 2015-16.

Surprisingly, Sertich wasn't just a coach in hockey, as he did have some years as a player. He played for the Bulldogs between 1966 and 1969, and was voted Most Improved Player as a senior. Sertich played as a defenseman and skated in 64 games in his career for the UMD Bulldogs. In his 64 career games as a player, Sertich scored two goals and added seven assists. He does have the honor of saying that one of his two goals was against legendary Chicago Blackhawkks goalie Tony Esposito.

Sertich leaves behind his daughter Lori, and two sons John and Scott. Sertich also leaves behind five grandchildren and one brother. Rest in peace Mike, and condolences to the entire family.

Source: Minnesota Duluth men's hockey
Legendary Men's Hockey Coach Mike Sertich Passes Away at Age 77