Home / Sports / Gophers Hockey Coach Bob Motzko Out After 8 Seasons
Gophers Hockey Coach Bob Motzko Out After 8 Seasons
18 Mar
Summary
- Motzko led Gophers to five straight NCAA tournaments.
- Team finished this season with 11 wins, fewest since 1971.
- Coach was under contract through the 2027-28 season.
Bob Motzko, 64, will not continue as the University of Minnesota's men's hockey coach for the upcoming season. In his eight years leading the Gophers, Motzko revitalized the program, achieving five consecutive NCAA tournament appearances from 2021 to 2025, reaching two Frozen Fours, and securing a national runner-up finish in 2023.
Despite past successes, the team's performance this season concluded with an 11-22-3 record, marking the fewest victories since the 1971-72 season. This downturn included a loss in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals, ending their NCAA bid streak and resulting in fan discontent.
Motzko's departure follows a pattern of program overhauls by AD Mark Coyle, who also recently dismissed the women's hockey coach. Motzko, previously an assistant coach for two national title teams, had been under contract until the 2027-28 season. Discussions with Coyle reportedly occurred earlier this week.
The Gophers are expected to lose five seniors, including top scorer Brody Lamb. Speculation is already underway regarding potential replacements, with names like Brett Larson and Pat Ferschweiler being mentioned. The program anticipates a talent infusion with the arrival of the Cullen brothers next season.
