Ernie “Punch” McLean dies tragically in accident.

I have some terrible news to share today.

Just days after being honored during a press conference at Queen’s Park Arena in New Westminster, British Columbia, the site of a statue in his honor, legendary hockey coach Ernie “Punch” McLean has died.

According to multiple reports, McLean was involved in a single vehicle accident near Dease Lake and has died as a result. McLean was 93 years old.

McLean had an incredible career as a junior hockey coach and is best known for leading the New Westminister Bruins to four straight President's Cip titles. McLean also captured the Memorial Cup twice during his coaching career, in 1977 and 1978 winning back to back championships.

McLean was named the WHL's coach of the year during the 1076-76 season and is a member of the BC Hockey Hall of Fame after being inducted in 2006.

Another great honor for McLean came just recently when Wayne Gretzky personally wrote a letter to support the petition to erect a statue in McLean's honor, doing so because McLean had coached him previously at the 1978 World Junior Championship. A then 16-year old Gretzky has always praised McLean for the mentorship he showed during that tournament.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention how the man earned his legendary nickname. "Punch" was known for his fiery temper and would often throw hands with opponents despite being a coach. McLean earned his nickname for his tough guy reputation and in n fact he even once punched a referee as he skated by his team's bench.

To say that McLean was a legendary hockey coach may honestly be underselling his accomplishments, and the outpouring of love and support since the news of his passing reflects as much.

NHL analyst Jeff Marek expressed his condolences:

TSN's Farhan Lalji mourned the passing of McLean:

Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal has offered his kind words as well:

The Canucks Al Murdoch also spoke out about McLean's tragic passing today:

There are no doubt countless others but these are just a few examples to show just how much McLean meant to the entire hockey community. My most sincere condolences go out to all of those impacted by today's tragic news.