35 Facts About Craig Berube

Early Life and Background

Craig Berube's journey to becoming a notable figure in hockey began with humble roots. His early life set the stage for his future success.

1. Craig Berube was born on December 17, 1965, in Calahoo, Alberta, Canada.
2. He grew up in a small town, where he developed a passion for hockey at a young age.
3. Berube's family was deeply involved in sports, which influenced his athletic career.
4. He played junior hockey for the Kamloops Blazers in the Western Hockey League (WHL).

Playing Career

Berube's playing career spanned over two decades, during which he became known for his toughness and leadership on the ice.

5. Craig Berube made his NHL debut with the Philadelphia Flyers in 1986.
6. He played as a left winger and was known for his role as an enforcer.
7. Throughout his career, Berube played for several NHL teams, including the Calgary Flames, Washington Capitals, and Toronto Maple Leafs.
8. He amassed over 3,000 penalty minutes during his NHL career, ranking him among the top enforcers in league history.
9. Berube retired from professional hockey in 2004 after playing 1,054 NHL games.

Coaching Career

After retiring as a player, Berube transitioned into coaching, where he found significant success.

10. Craig Berube began his coaching career as an assistant coach with the Philadelphia Phantoms in the American Hockey League (AHL).
11. He was promoted to head coach of the Phantoms in 2006.
12. Berube joined the Philadelphia Flyers' coaching staff as an assistant coach in 2008.
13. In 2013, he was named head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers, leading the team to the playoffs in his first season.
14. Berube became the head coach of the St. Louis Blues in 2018 after serving as an assistant coach.
15. Under his leadership, the Blues won their first-ever Stanley Cup in 2019.

Personal Life

Beyond the rink, Berube has a rich personal life that includes family and hobbies.

16. Craig Berube is married and has two children.
17. He enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting.
18. Berube is known for his charitable work, often participating in events to support various causes.
19. He has a reputation for being approachable and down-to-earth, both with fans and players.

Legacy and Impact

Berube's impact on hockey extends beyond his playing and coaching career, influencing the sport in various ways.

20. Craig Berube is widely respected for his leadership qualities and ability to motivate players.
21. He is often credited with helping to change the perception of enforcers in hockey, showing they can also be effective coaches.
22. Berube's success with the St. Louis Blues has inspired many young coaches and players.
23. He has been featured in numerous interviews and documentaries about hockey.
24. Berube's coaching style emphasizes discipline, hard work, and teamwork.

Fun Facts

Here are some interesting tidbits about Craig Berube that you might not know.

25. Craig Berube's nickname is "Chief," a nod to his First Nations heritage.
26. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Flyers Hall of Fame in 2019.
27. Berube once played in a charity game where he scored a hat trick, despite being known more for his physical play than scoring.
28. He has a cameo appearance in the hockey movie "Goon: Last of the Enforcers."
29. Berube is an avid fan of country music and often attends concerts in his free time.

Awards and Recognitions

Berube's contributions to hockey have earned him several accolades over the years.

30. Craig Berube won the Jack Adams Award for NHL Coach of the Year in 2019.
31. He was named to the NHL All-Star Game coaching staff in 2020.
32. Berube received the Order of Hockey in Canada in 2021 for his contributions to the sport.
33. He was honored with a key to the city of St. Louis after the Blues' Stanley Cup victory.
34. Berube has been recognized by various hockey organizations for his leadership and impact on the game.
35. His jersey number was retired by the Kamloops Blazers in recognition of his contributions to the team.

Craig Berube: A Glimpse into a Storied Career

Craig Berube's journey through hockey has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a player to his current role as a coach, he's left a lasting impact on the sport. Known for his toughness on the ice and his strategic mind behind the bench, Berube has earned respect from fans and players alike. His leadership helped the St. Louis Blues clinch their first Stanley Cup in 2019, a testament to his coaching prowess. Beyond the rink, Berube's dedication to the game and his team is evident in every move he makes. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan or just curious about the sport, Craig Berube's story is one worth knowing. His career is a blend of grit, determination, and undeniable talent, making him a true icon in the world of hockey.