Guite named interim head coach of UMaine hockey
ORONO, Maine (BVM) — The University of Maine announced that Ben Guite would serve as interim head coach of the men’s ice hockey team. The news comes after the passing of long-time hockey coach Red Gendron, on April 9.
“We are fortunate to have someone of Ben Guite’s experience and character to guide our program through this difficult time,” University of Maine Director of Athletics Ken Ralph said in a press release. “Ben is a Black Bear alum, a national champion, played in the National Hockey League and has established himself as one of the top assistant coaches in college hockey. More importantly, there is no one who cares more about the University of Maine and the success of its hockey program.”
Guite has been a part of the Black Bears’ program for the last eight seasons after joining Gendron’s staff in 2013. The former center helped lead Maine to the 1999 NCAA National Championship before spending 13 years as a professional hockey player.
“I would like to thank Director of Athletics Ken Ralph and President Joan Ferrini-Mundy for their confidence in me to help guide our team through this difficult time,” Guite said. “At the moment, our thoughts are with Coach Red’s wife Jan, and their daughters, Katie and Allie, and we are here to support our players in any needs that they may have. Our program will honor Coach Red through our passion for Maine Hockey and our effort on and off the ice.
“I am honored to serve on the Maine Hockey staff and strive to represent all that Maine Hockey means to myself, our University, our state, and our region. I will continue to give back to a program which has given so much to me both as a player, and as a coach.”
The incoming coach is taking over a Black Bears team that went 3-11-2 in the 2020-21 season.
