EP.131 - Sven Butenschon - Head coach of the UBC Thunderbirds

Up My Hockey with Jason Podollan

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Sven Butenschon is a highly accomplished hockey coach and former professional player with an impressive career spanning various hockey leagues. Born in Itzehoe, Germany, Butenschon's journey in the hockey world has left a lasting impact both as a player and as a coach.

As a player, Butenschon showcased his skills as a defenseman with a left-hand shot. His talent did not go unnoticed, leading to his selection by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third round, 57th overall, during the 1994 NHL Entry Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career, which would later see him playing in several prominent leagues.

Butenschon's playing career includes stints in the Western Hockey League (WHL), International Hockey League (IHL), National Hockey League (NHL), American Hockey League (AHL), and the Deutsche Eishockey League (DEL) in Germany. This diverse experience across different leagues attests to his versatility and adaptability as a player.

Transitioning from a successful playing career to coaching, Butenschon found himself at the helm of the University of British Columbia (UBC) hockey team. His coaching prowess reached new heights as he led the team to a remarkable achievement – winning the championships for the first time in over 50 years. This historic victory not only highlighted Butenschon's leadership abilities but also brought a sense of pride and accomplishment to the UBC hockey program.

Being named the U Sports Coach of the Year is a testament to Butenschon's dedication, strategic acumen, and the positive impact he has had on his players. His coaching philosophy, honed through years of experience in different hockey environments, played a crucial role in shaping a championship-winning team.