Meet Coach Gadowsky

It's going to be hard for Penn State hockey fans to not like new head coach Guy Gadowsky and what he has planned for the fledgling varsity program.

His being Canadian aside, I was immediately struck at this afternoon's press conference by his passion for the sport that we love, his passion for academics, and his acknowledgement of the rich tradition of the Icers.

Joe Battista had T-shirts made up for the Gadowsky family that said "Guy is our Guy." Others are in full agreement.

Here's a sampling of some quotes and comments. First, Athletic Director Tim Curley:

Guy Gadowsky has enjoyed a very impressive coaching career to date. He's helped build programs at Alaska-Fairbanks and Princeton University to top national programs.

He has developed NHL players and won conference championships and has had teams participate in the NCAA Tournament. He's been recognized with both conference and national Coach of the Year honors. He's highly-respected among his peers. And every person we spoke to, spoke about his high integrity and his passion for the game and for the student athletes that are under his leadership.

His players have consistently excelled in the classroom and community as well. We believe he has the total package to reach the goals for our program and will be a fantastic addition to the Penn State community.

Toronto Maple Leafs President & General Manager Brian Burke:

“This is a big-time hire. Penn State really got it right coming out of the chute. Guy is an excellent coach - a teacher, a motivator and an educator. What a great first step for the Penn State program!”

And from Mike Cross, currently the AD at Bradley University and formerly an Associate AD at Princeton:

"Guy Gadowsky is one of the hardest-working and most high-character coaches in college athletics.  There is no question that he will build Penn State Hockey the right way with student-athletes of character that will make everyone associated with Penn State proud.  He is a very smart, successful and humble person who will have many, many years of success in State College and be embraced by the community. The future is very bright in Happy Valley under his leadership."

However, to really get to know how people really feel about their Guy, head on over to Tiger Blog.

Penn State has gotten someone dynamic to be the head man for its hockey program. It has someone with the drive and desire and sheer competitive will necessary to follow through on the school's investment.

Good luck, Guy.

Princeton will miss you.

We know you'll miss him, so we'll make sure he knows how much he means to Penn State.

And now, without further ado, may I present Coach Guy Gadowsky!