Professional Hockey Coach. He will be best remembered for guiding the Montreal Canadiens to the Stanley Cup title in 1969. He had a potentially successful career ahead of him, as a player, prior to being struck in the eye by a puck during a game in 1958, which caused permanent damage to his vision. He joined the Montreal Canadiens' organization, initially as a Minor League coach and went on to scouting. He was elevated to director of player development and in 1968, he was given the difficult assignment of succeeding Hall of Fame Coach Toe Blake. After Montreal's championship year in 1969, they failed to make the playoffs the following season (1969-1970). Ruel resigned during the next season and returned to a front office position with the team. He experienced a second stint at the helm as head coach with the Canadiens for parts of two seasons (1979 to 1981).
Professional Hockey Coach. He will be best remembered for guiding the Montreal Canadiens to the Stanley Cup title in 1969. He had a potentially successful career ahead of him, as a player, prior to being struck in the eye by a puck during a game in 1958, which caused permanent damage to his vision. He joined the Montreal Canadiens' organization, initially as a Minor League coach and went on to scouting. He was elevated to director of player development and in 1968, he was given the difficult assignment of succeeding Hall of Fame Coach Toe Blake. After Montreal's championship year in 1969, they failed to make the playoffs the following season (1969-1970). Ruel resigned during the next season and returned to a front office position with the team. He experienced a second stint at the helm as head coach with the Canadiens for parts of two seasons (1979 to 1981).
Bio by: C.S.
Family Members
Advertisement
