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Mike Smith was
born and raised in Potsdam in
the 1950's. He went on to
attend Clarkson University
before transferring over to
Syracuse University where he
earned a Doctorate in Political
Science and Russian Studies.
After graduation, he pursued his
first job in hockey after being
appointed the head coaching job
at Christian Brothers Academy in
Syracuse before his hiring in
the Winnipeg Jets front office.
Mike went on to numerous
coaching stints with in the NHL
to include.
- Assistant
Coach, New York Rangers
- 14-years
in the Winnipeg Jets
organization in various
capacities to include
General Manager, Head Coach,
and Director of Scouting.
- Toronto
Maple Leafs Associate
General Manager
- Director
of Hockey Operations,
Chicago Blackhawks
Smith has been
heavily involved with USA
Hockey, having served as the
Coach and General Manager for
the team's 1981, 1994, and 1995
appearances at the IIHF World
Hockey Championships. In
addition, he serves on the
advisory board to USA Hockey.
Mike is
widowed after his wife Judith
succumbed to cancer in the fall
of 2000. The couple had
one son Jason. Mike has
authored ten books related to
coaching hockey at the
grassroots level and is an avid
collector of Native American
artwork.
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Mike
was inducted into
the New York State
High School Hockey-
Hall of Fame, March
1999, for his
dedication to the
sport as a truly
great player who has
contributed
noteworthy service
to the sport. |
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