Beloved hockey coach tragically passes away at 77

Sertich coached UMD's men's hockey team from 1982 to 2000, leading them to three championship titles in 1984, 1985, and 1993. A native of Virginia, Minnesota, Sertich had an impressive career record of 350-328-44. He was honored with the 1984 Penrose Award, given to the Coach of the Year by the American Hockey Coaches Association, and set a club record in 1985 with a remarkable 36-9-3 season.

After his time at UMD, Sertich went on to coach Michigan Tech University from 2000 to 2003. In 2010, he became a volunteer coach at the College of St. Scholastica for three seasons and later volunteered with the U.S. National Sled Hockey Team in 2015-16.

Before coaching, Sertich was also a player. He played defense for the UMD Bulldogs from 1966 to 1969 and was named Most Improved Player in his senior year. Over his 64-game career, he scored two goals and made seven assists, with one of his goals coming against legendary Chicago Blackhawks goalie Tony Esposito.

Sertich is survived by his daughter Lori, two sons John and Scott, five grandchildren, and one brother. Our deepest condolences to his family. Rest in peace, Mike Sertich.

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