Seattle Kraken Coach: Everything You Should Know About Seattle Kraken Coach

Quick Bio: Seattle Kraken Coach

Early Life and Background

Dave Hakstol was born on July 30, 1968, in Drayton Valley, Alberta, Canada. Growing up in Canada, where hockey is deeply ingrained in the culture, Hakstol developed a passion for the sport from an early age. He played as a defenseman during his youth and collegiate years before transitioning into coaching.

Hakstol played junior hockey for the St. Albert Saints in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). His commitment and hard work as a player helped him secure a spot on the University of North Dakota (UND) hockey team, where he played between 1989 and 1992.

Though his playing career never took him to the NHL, he found his true calling behind the bench, helping develop future professional players. His background as a player contributed to his deep understanding of the game, which later helped shape his coaching career.

Age and Physical Appearance

As of 2024, Dave Hakstol is 55 years old. He has a strong, athletic build, characteristic of a former hockey player. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) and weighing 185 lbs (84 kg), Hakstol maintains a professional and disciplined presence on and off the ice. His short blonde hair and sharp coaching demeanor make him a recognizable figure in the NHL coaching world.

Education

Dave Hakstol pursued his education at the University of North Dakota, where he played as a defenseman for the Fighting Hawks hockey team from 1989 to 1992. His time at UND not only developed his hockey skills but also laid the foundation for his future in coaching.

After completing his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, starting at lower levels before gradually moving up to elite hockey teams. His educational background and on-ice experience helped him develop the analytical skills necessary to be a successful coach.

His Father

Dave Hakstol has maintained a private life regarding his family, and limited information is available about his father. However, it is well-known that his upbringing in Drayton Valley, Alberta, was strongly influenced by the hockey culture of Canada. His father likely played a role in instilling discipline and a love for the sport in him from a young age.

His Mother

Like his father, information about Dave Hakstol’s mother remains mostly private. However, it is evident that his parents supported his hockey journey, enabling him to pursue his passion both as a player and later as a coach.

Children

Dave Hakstol is a devoted family man. He is married to Erinn Hakstol, and together they have two children—a son and a daughter. Though he maintains a relatively private life, his commitment to his family is evident in his public appearances and interviews.

His children have been spotted at various events, supporting their father’s career. Despite the demanding nature of coaching in the NHL, Hakstol ensures that he balances his professional and personal life.

Who Is Dave Hakstol?

Dave Hakstol is a highly respected ice hockey coach with extensive experience at both the collegiate and professional levels. He is best known for being the head coach of the Seattle Kraken, an NHL franchise that joined the league in 2021.

Before joining the Kraken, Hakstol had a long and successful tenure as the head coach of the University of North Dakota men’s hockey team, where he led the team to seven Frozen Four appearances. His success at the NCAA level caught the attention of NHL teams, leading to his hiring as the head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers in 2015.

Despite facing challenges in the NHL, he has earned a reputation for developing young talent and implementing strong defensive systems.

Coaching Career Overview

1. University of North Dakota (2004–2015)
   • Led the team to seven Frozen Four appearances.
   • Helped develop several future NHL players.
2. Philadelphia Flyers (2015–2018)
   • Became the first NCAA coach to move directly to an NHL head coaching role in over 30 years.
   • Guided the Flyers to two playoff appearances.
3. Toronto Maple Leafs (2019–2021, Assistant Coach)
   • Focused on defensive strategy and penalty killing.
4. Seattle Kraken (2021–Present)
   • Named first-ever head coach of the expansion team.
   • Led the team to its first playoff appearance in 2023.

Hakstol’s coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, defensive responsibility, and player development, making him a valuable asset for the Seattle Kraken.

Current Life

As of 2024, Dave Hakstol is actively coaching the Seattle Kraken. Under his leadership, the team has made significant progress, growing stronger with each season. His tactical approach and ability to develop young players have been crucial in shaping the team’s identity.

Hakstol’s work ethic, dedication, and passion for the game continue to drive his coaching career. As the Kraken strive for greater success, he remains focused on improving the team’s performance, consistency, and competitiveness.

Net Worth

Dave Hakstol’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million as of 2024. His income primarily comes from:

• His coaching salary in the NHL.
• Endorsements and appearances.
• Previous contracts with teams like the Philadelphia Flyers and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Given his long-standing coaching career and success at both collegiate and professional levels, his financial status reflects his years of dedication and hard work in hockey.

Conclusion

Dave Hakstol is an experienced and accomplished hockey coach who has made a significant impact in the NHL. From his early days as a player to his head coaching role with the Seattle Kraken, Hakstol’s career reflects his dedication to the sport.

His strong defensive coaching style, leadership abilities, and commitment to player development have played a key role in shaping the Kraken’s success. As he continues leading the team, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how he elevates the franchise to new heights.

FAQ: Seattle Kraken Coach

1. Who is the head coach of the Seattle Kraken?

The head coach of the Seattle Kraken is Dave Hakstol, who was appointed in 2021 as the franchise’s first-ever coach.

2. How old is Dave Hakstol?

Dave Hakstol was born on July 30, 1968, making him 55 years old as of 2024.

3. What teams has Dave Hakstol coached?

Hakstol has coached:

• University of North Dakota (2004–2015, NCAA)
• Philadelphia Flyers (2015–2018, NHL)
• Toronto Maple Leafs (2019–2021, Assistant Coach, NHL)
• Seattle Kraken (2021–present, NHL)

4. What is Dave Hakstol’s net worth?

His estimated net worth is $5 million as of 2024.

5. Has Dave Hakstol won a Stanley Cup?

As of 2024, Dave Hakstol has not won a Stanley Cup, but he has led teams to deep playoff runs and has been instrumental in developing NHL talent.