Bill Hanson: The Legendary Coach

Published December 7, 2010 AOL Patch
By Angelo Todesca
WEST ROXBURY - He's high school coaching royalty.

His name evokes images of a generation of young men lifting up state championship trophies before cheering crowds.

His name is William Hanson, the current head coach of the most successful high school hockey program in New England.

Hanson, 61, began at the Catholic Memorial High School in West Roxbury in 1976 (now called the Catholic Memorial School after it added a middle school). Little did he know then he was building one of the greatest dynasties in the history of high school athletics.

But as he approaches retirement, Hanson is the one doing the thanking.

"I have been so blessed over the years to work at such a fine institution," said Hanson, who has been a science teacher and currently serves as a guidance counselor at CM.

During his 35 years behind the bench, Hanson has turned out 20 Catholic Conference Championships, 17 state championships, and six national championships.

"When I retire, I will look back on my accomplishments… I owe everything to the great kids that have played for me over the years," said Hanson.

The most influential person in Hanson's career has always been his father.

"I always credit my longevity and work ethic to my father. He wasn't a hockey man, but he put everything he had into what he did."

Hanson is known for his fiery coaching style. He has always had an intimidating presence on the bench. That harsh and sometimes over critical behavior is something Hanson continues to work on year after year.

"I'm kind of high-spirited," Hanson said, "but I'm working on channeling it in a positive direction."

A unique aspect of Hanson's coaching strategy is his fast paced practices that get his players familiar with real game situations.

"High speed, over-skilled practices with no comfort zone… I seldom usea whistle in practice."

Hanson, who has graced the pages of Sports Illustrated and numerous New England newspapers, continues to stay humble and grateful.

"It's always nice to get recognized for your hard work and accomplishments…I'm no different from anyone else," said Hanson.

With the ever-changing landscape of Massachusetts high school hockey, talented players from the area are being told to play in Junior Hockey Leagues instead of their high schools.

"A lot of people say Juniors is the way to go, but high school hockey is as vibrant as ever."

Thanks to the rich winning tradition Hanson has started at Catholic Memorial, he hasn't had to worry about losing players.

"Building a program that students want to be apart of was my main concern when I started at CM," Hanson said. "A lot of players and coaches respect the way we do things around here."

Patrick Greene, 20, of Weymouth, a junior on the Stonehill College ice hockey team, can't think of a better coach he has played for in his career."

Coach Hanson has taught me so much about the game of hockey... hispreparation, focus and knowledge is second to none."

Behind all of the state championships and individual awards, Hanson likes to think of himself as a down-to-earth guy. A side most people don't get to see.

"I do in fact have a real good sense of humor and don't take myself seriously at all," Hanson said.
"Most people think I'm an intense, ultra-focused hockey coach whose whole life is hockey, but that couldn't be further from the truth."

Originally from South Boston, Hanson enjoys sailing when he's away from the rink. During the off-season he lives at his waterfront home in Marion.

"This probably would come as a surprise to people, but I'm an avid sailor…I've done a lot of blue water racing."

After his coaching career is over Hanson plans to retire and live in South Carolina, playing golf and sailing the Atlantic Ocean everyday.

"Kiawah Island down in South Carolina may be the hidden jewel of this country…that's where I aspire to retire to if not Florida."

Whether it's sitting on the beach or teeing up a golf shot, Hanson will have many memories to look back on.

Being one of the greatest high school hockey coaches of all time is one of them.