Bemidji State Beavers
Being a successful coach in any sport is not an easy task. It requires a combination of leadership skills, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of the game. However, when it comes to college hockey, one name stands out amongst the rest – Tom Serratore, the head coach of Bemidji State Beavers.
In the world of college hockey, the Bemidji State Beavers have made a name for themselves as one of the top teams in the NCAA division. And there is no doubt that the success of this program can be attributed to the phenomenal leadership of Coach Serratore. In this article, we will dive deep into the impact of Coach Serratore’s legacy on the Bemidji State Beavers program.
Building a Winning Culture
Coach Serratore took over as the head coach for the Beavers in 2001, and since then, he has taken the program to new heights. His first few years with the team were challenging, as the Beavers were still adjusting to playing at the Division I level. But Coach Serratore had a clear vision of what he wanted to achieve with his team – building a winning culture.
He instilled in his players the idea that they were always capable of achieving greatness, no matter the circumstances. This mentality became the foundation of the program, and it has paid off in the form of multiple conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
Developing Players for the Next Level
The success of any college program is not only measured by the number of wins or conference championships but also by the number of players who go on to play at the professional level. And under Coach Serratore’s leadership, the Bemidji State Beavers have produced some top-notch NHL players, including Matt Read, Brad Hunt, and current captain Kyle Bauman.
But Coach Serratore’s impact goes beyond the players who make it to the professional level. He is known for his ability to develop players and help them reach their full potential. His focus on developing players both on and off the ice has not only produced great results for the team but has also helped his players succeed in their future endeavors.
Creating a Strong Team Culture
One of the factors that set the Bemidji State Beavers apart from other teams is their strong team culture. Coach Serratore believes in creating a family-like atmosphere within the team, where players support and encourage each other. This has helped the team overcome tough challenges and come out stronger.
This sense of camaraderie within the team is evident both on and off the ice. Players often talk about the brotherhood they share with their teammates, and this has been a key factor in their success on the ice.
Teaching More Than Just Hockey
While Coach Serratore’s main focus is hockey, he also places a strong emphasis on education and character development. He believes that success on the ice is temporary, but the lessons learned and the character built during college will last a lifetime.
He not only encourages his players to excel academically but also to be good citizens and role models in their community. This holistic approach to coaching has not only made the players better hockey players but better human beings as well.
Continuing the Legacy
After two decades as the head coach at Bemidji State, Coach Serratore’s legacy is undeniable. The impact he has had on the program is immeasurable, and his dedication and passion for the game have inspired countless players.
As Coach Serratore prepares to step down from his role at the end of the 2021-2022 season, his legacy will continue to live on. The impact he has had on the Bemidji State Beavers program will be felt for years to come, and his lessons will continue to shape the players who pass through the team.
Without a doubt, Coach Serratore will always be remembered as one of the greatest coaches in college hockey. His leadership, determination, and passion have elevated the Bemidji State Beavers program and left a lasting impression on everyone he has worked with.
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