40 Facts About Don Cherry

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Don Cherry, a name synonymous with hockey, has a life filled with intriguing stories. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about this iconic figure.

1. Born on February 5, 1934, in Kingston, Ontario, Don Cherry grew up in a family passionate about sports.
2. His father, Delmar, was an amateur athlete who influenced Don's early interest in hockey.
3. Cherry played junior hockey for the Barrie Flyers, where he began to make a name for himself.
4. He had a brief stint in the NHL, playing one game for the Boston Bruins during the 1954-55 season.
5. Most of his playing career was spent in the minor leagues, where he played for teams like the Hershey Bears and the Rochester Americans.

Coaching Career

Don Cherry's transition from player to coach marked a significant chapter in his life. His coaching style and personality left a lasting impact on the hockey world.

6. Cherry began his coaching career with the Rochester Americans in the American Hockey League (AHL).
7. He led the Americans to a Calder Cup championship in 1972.
8. In 1974, Cherry became the head coach of the Boston Bruins, a position he held until 1979.
9. Under his leadership, the Bruins reached the Stanley Cup Finals twice, in 1977 and 1978.
10. Cherry was known for his tough, old-school coaching style, which earned him both respect and criticism.

Broadcasting Career

After his coaching career, Don Cherry found a new calling in broadcasting. His colorful personality made him a beloved figure on television.

11. Cherry joined CBC's "Hockey Night in Canada" in 1980 as a commentator.
12. He became famous for his "Coach's Corner" segment, where he shared his unfiltered opinions on the game.
13. His flamboyant suits and outspoken nature made him a household name.
14. Cherry's partnership with Ron MacLean became one of the most iconic duos in sports broadcasting.
15. Despite controversies, Cherry remained a fixture on "Hockey Night in Canada" for nearly four decades.

Controversies and Public Image

Don Cherry's career has not been without its share of controversies. His outspoken nature often landed him in hot water.

16. Cherry has been criticized for his comments on European and French-Canadian players.
17. He has also faced backlash for his views on fighting in hockey.
18. In 2004, Cherry was reprimanded for comments about visors, which many saw as targeting European players.
19. His support for Canadian troops and veterans has been both praised and criticized.
20. In 2019, Cherry was fired from "Hockey Night in Canada" following comments about immigrants not wearing poppies.

Personal Life

Beyond the rink and the screen, Don Cherry's personal life offers a glimpse into the man behind the persona.

21. Cherry married his first wife, Rosemarie, in 1957. They remained together until her death in 1997.
22. He has two children, Cindy and Tim.
23. Cherry is a proud grandfather and often speaks fondly of his grandchildren.
24. He is an avid dog lover and has owned several bulldogs over the years.
25. Cherry's love for animals led him to support various animal charities.

Legacy and Honors

Don Cherry's contributions to hockey and broadcasting have earned him numerous accolades and a lasting legacy.

26. In 1985, Cherry was inducted into the American Hockey League Hall of Fame.
27. He received the Order of Canada in 1993 for his contributions to hockey and charitable work.
28. Cherry was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history by The Hockey News in 1998.
29. In 2004, he was inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame.
30. Cherry's influence extends beyond hockey, as he has appeared in commercials, movies, and even video games.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Let's round out our list with some fun and quirky facts about Don Cherry that you might not know.

31. Cherry's nickname is "Grapes," a moniker he earned during his playing days.
32. He has a star on Canada's Walk of Fame, which he received in 2008.
33. Cherry's distinctive suits are custom-made by a tailor in Toronto.
34. He once ran for political office, though he was not elected.
35. Cherry has authored several books, including his autobiography "Grapes: A Vintage View of Hockey."
36. He is a fan of country music and has even recorded a country album.
37. Cherry's bulldog, Blue, became a minor celebrity in its own right, often appearing on "Coach's Corner."
38. He has a strong social media presence, with thousands of followers on Twitter.
39. Cherry is known for his charitable work, particularly with organizations supporting veterans and animals.
40. Despite his controversies, Cherry remains a beloved figure in Canadian culture, symbolizing the rugged spirit of hockey.

Don Cherry's Legacy

Don Cherry's influence on hockey and broadcasting is undeniable. From his iconic suits to his bold opinions, he's left a mark on the sport. His time on "Coach's Corner" made him a household name, and his unwavering passion for hockey inspired many. Though his comments sometimes sparked controversy, they also sparked conversations, making people think about the game in new ways.

Cherry's dedication to supporting the troops and his charity work show another side of him, one that cares deeply about his community. Whether you agree with his views or not, there's no denying his impact on hockey culture. His legacy will be remembered for years, and his contributions to the sport will continue to be celebrated. Don Cherry remains a legendary figure, embodying the spirit and passion of hockey.