Pat Ginnell


Patrick "Patty" Ginnell was a Canadian professional ice hockey player and junior league coach.

Career

Playing career

Ginnell played a total of ten seasons professionally in the Western Hockey League and International Hockey League. While playing with the Flin Flon Bombers, he led them to a 64-9-2 record and won the 1957 Memorial Cup

Coaching career

After his playing career ended, he coached for the next twenty years in the Western Hockey League for the Flin Flon Bombers, Victoria Cougars, Lethbridge Broncos, Medicine Hat Tigers and New Westminster Bruins.
In 1974, he left the Flin Flon Bombers for the Victoria Cougars and had a first season record of 16-19-3. After seeing an increase in attendance once the team was winning, Ginnell signed a broadcasting contract and developed a plan to increase season ticket sales. However, his career with the Victoria Cougars came to an end after a brawl between his team and the Saskatoon Blades, although he remained their owner.
He was a scout for the St. Louis Blues after his coaching career came to an end.

Personal life

He died at age 66 after a long battle with cancer. His grandson Riley Ginnell plays with the Brandon Wheat Kings in the WHL. His other grandchildren Brad Ginnell and Derek Ginnell also play hockey.

Awards and honours