Kirollos Wasef (10) | STAFF REPORTER
On January 5, 2025, Al MacNeil, former coach for the Calgary Flames, died at the age of 89. His legacy is fondly remembered throughout the hockey world for his devotion to the sport.
Born on September 27, 1935, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Al MacNeil ultimately amassed a total of 17 goals and 75 assists in his career as a player. He went on to become a hockey coach and an executive.
From 1955 to 1968, Al MacNeil played as a defenceman in over 500 NHL games. During that time, MacNeil played for several hockey teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks, and Pittsburgh Penguins.
In his first year as a head coach, Al MacNeil led the Montreal Canadiens to victory in winning the 1971 Stanley Cup. MacNeil was also the director of player personnel for the Montreal Canadiens when they won the Stanley Cup again in both 1978 and 1979.
Al MacNeil further worked as both a general manager and head coach for the Nova Scotia Voyageurs when the team won the Calder Cup in 1972, 1976, and 1977.
Then, MacNeil worked as an assistant general manager for the Calgary Flames when they won the 1989 Stanley Cup.
In a recent press release, the Calgary Flames stated that MacNeil had passed away in Calgary, though details surrounding the cause of his death were not given. Now, his legacy continues to live on in the hearts of many.
