Murray Alexander Armstrong (born January 1, 1916) is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey centre and NCAA hockey coach.

[edit] Playing career

Armstrong played junior hockey with the Regina Pats before debuting with the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs in the 1937–38 season. Two years later he was involved in one of the biggest trades of the decade. He, Busher Jackson, Buzz Boll, and Doc Romnes were sent to the New York Americans in exchange for Sweeney Schriner. He played three years with New York before World War II, in which he went to play and coach for the Regina Army Caps. Following his army service, Armstrong was signed by Jack Adams in Detroit, but halfway through his third season he was demoted after Adams called up an 18-year old named Gordon Howe.

Following his retirement, Armstrong went on to coach the Regina Pats from 1950–55, and the University of Denver from 1956 to 1977, winning 5 NCAA Championships in 1958, 1960, 1961, 1967 and 1968. He is considered one of the top NCAA coaches of all time.

He retired to St. Augustine, Florida, where he remained an avid golfer into his 90s.

His son is Rob Armstrong, a well-known radio broadcaster.

[edit] Awards & Achievements

• EAHL Second All-Star Team (1936)
• Herman W. Paterson Cup (USHL - MVP) (1947)
• Lester Patrick Trophy (1977)

[edit] External links

• Murray Armstrong's biography at Legends of Hockey
• Murray Armstrong's career stats at The Internet Hockey Database

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