David Carle, head coach of the University of Denver Pioneers men`s hockey team, has officially signed a new multi-year contract extension with the university as of Monday. This decision keeps him with the collegiate program despite reported interest and pursuit from several National Hockey League clubs.
Carle, a two-time National Championship winner with the Pioneers, is set to return for his eighth season leading the team. His successful tenure includes four appearances in the NCAA`s Frozen Four tournament.
Speculation about Carle moving to the professional ranks intensified as several NHL head coaching positions became vacant – currently seven in total. Reports indicated that Carle was indeed a candidate receiving attention from multiple NHL teams.
“I am honored to have the University`s support for our hockey program over the last seven years and into the future,” David Carle said in a released statement. “Without their support and the support of our fans, alumni, and donors, nothing that we have accomplished would have been possible.”
Adding to his coaching accolades and fueling the NHL rumours, Carle also achieved consecutive gold medals as head coach of the U.S. team at the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships in both 2023 and 2024 – a first for the American program.
The Anchorage, Alaska, native has built an impressive record of 179-74-17 with the Pioneers during his time as coach. His career winning percentage of .694 stands as the best in the school`s history since he was hired at the young age of just 28.
Currently, several NHL teams are in search of a new head coach, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Vancouver Canucks, Philadelphia Flyers, Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins, Seattle Kraken, and Chicago Blackhawks. Carle`s decision removes one prominent name from the pool of potential candidates.
Tristan Blackwood