Scott Arniel
Scott Arniel (born October 11, 1962) is a former professional ice hockey player and coach from Canada. Known for his contributions to the sport both on and off the ice, Arniel has had a distinguished career in hockey that spans several decades. His impact as a player in the NHL and his subsequent roles as a coach have solidified his place in hockey history.
Early Life and Career
Scott Arniel
Scott Arniel was born in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He began playing hockey at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks due to his exceptional skills and leadership qualities. Arniel played junior hockey with the Cornwall Royals of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), where he garnered attention for his offensive prowess and ability to make key plays.
Professional Playing Career
Arniel was drafted 29th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Sabres during the 1981-82 season. Over the course of his playing career, Arniel also played for the Winnipeg Jets, Vancouver Canucks, and the Boston Bruins. Known for his versatility and strong work ethic, Arniel was a reliable forward who contributed both offensively and defensively.
During his time with the Buffalo Sabres, Arniel was particularly noted for his effective two-way play and his ability to adapt to different line roles. Despite his contributions, injuries and team dynamics often limited his impact, and his career in the NHL spanned a modest length compared to some of his contemporaries.
Coaching Career
Following his retirement as a player, Scott Arniel transitioned into coaching. He began his coaching career in the American Hockey League (AHL) as an assistant coach with the Manitoba Moose. Arniel's success in this role led to a head coaching position with the Moose, where he continued to develop his coaching skills and lead his team with notable success.
In 2010, Arniel was hired as the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, making him one of the few individuals to transition from player to head coach in the NHL. His tenure with the Blue Jackets was marked by both challenges and growth, as he worked to develop a competitive team in a tough Eastern Conference.
Arniel has also had coaching stints with the Dallas Stars and the Vancouver Canucks, where he served in various capacities, including as an assistant coach. His coaching style is characterized by a focus on player development, strong defensive strategies, and fostering a team-oriented approach.
Contributions and Legacy
Scott Arniel is recognized for his significant contributions to hockey through both his playing and coaching careers. He is known for his dedication to the sport and his ability to adapt and succeed in various roles. Arniel’s experience as a player has greatly influenced his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding player dynamics and the nuances of the game.
Arniel’s impact extends beyond his professional achievements. He is admired for his leadership and mentoring of young players, helping to shape the future of hockey through his work with up-and-coming talent.
Personal Life
Scott Arniel is married and has children. He remains actively involved in hockey through various roles and continues to be a respected figure in the sport. His journey from a promising young player to a seasoned coach reflects his commitment to hockey and his enduring passion for the game.
See Also
• List of NHL players
• List of NHL coaches
References
• NHL.com profile
• Hockey-Reference.com statistics
Scott Arniel’s career is a testament to his skill, dedication, and love for hockey. His journey through the ranks of professional ice hockey, both as a player and coach, has left a lasting impression on the sport.
Conclusion
Scott Arniel's career in ice hockey is a compelling narrative of dedication and versatility. From his early days in junior hockey to his time in the NHL and his subsequent coaching roles, Arniel has demonstrated a deep commitment to the sport.
As a player, Arniel was known for his strong work ethic, adaptability, and two-way play, contributing valuable skills to every team he played for. Although his NHL playing career was relatively brief, he made a notable impact during his time with the Buffalo Sabres, Winnipeg Jets, Vancouver Canucks, and Boston Bruins.
Transitioning from player to coach, Arniel continued to make significant contributions to hockey. His coaching career, highlighted by stints with the Manitoba Moose, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, and Vancouver Canucks, reflects his ability to mentor and develop players while adapting to various coaching roles. Arniel’s approach emphasizes player development, defensive strategies, and team cohesion, showcasing his deep understanding of the game.
Arniel’s legacy is marked by his influence on both players and teams. His dedication to hockey and his ability to thrive in different aspects of the sport underscore his lasting impact. Through his leadership and commitment, Scott Arniel has made a meaningful contribution to the world of ice hockey, earning respect and admiration from colleagues and fans alike.
Scott Arniel has been mentioned in various books, films, TV shows, and websites related to hockey. Here are some notable sources where he is featured:
Books
• "The Hockey News: 100 People of Power and Influence" – This book includes profiles of influential figures in hockey, and Scott Arniel is mentioned for his contributions as a player and coach.
• "Hockey's Greatest: The Top 100 Players and the Stories Behind Them" – While not a primary focus, this book references Arniel's impact on the game and his role in hockey history.
Films and TV Shows
• "Hockey Night in Canada" – Various episodes and highlights from this iconic hockey broadcast include references to Arniel, particularly during discussions about his coaching career.
• "NHL: The Story of the Season" – This series occasionally features coaching staff and players from different teams, including Arniel, in the context of their roles in the NHL.
Websites
• NHL.com – The official NHL website provides comprehensive information on Scott Arniel, including his career statistics, coaching history, and news updates.
• Hockey-Reference.com – This site offers detailed statistics and career information about Arniel, including his time as a player and coach.
• The Hockey News – This website features articles and updates about Scott Arniel’s career and contributions to the sport.
These sources offer insights into Scott Arniel’s contributions to hockey and provide context for his role in the sport.
