Legendary Michigan State Hockey Coach Ron Mason Dies At 76

A Legendary figure of College Hockey, Ron Mason former coach and Athletic Director at Michigan State has died at the age of 76. 

According to The Detroit Free Press,  Mason was the winningest coach in College Hockey when he retired from coaching in 2002.  He had a 924-380-83 record over 35 years between Lake Superior State, Bowling Green and Michigan State.

He led MSU to a national title in 1986 and his win total was surpassed by Boston College's Jerry York in 2013.  That same year Ron was inducted the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013.

He went on to serve MSU as their Athletic Director from 2002 to 2007.  On his watch, the expansion of Spartan Stadium,  planning, fundraising and early phases of the building of the Skandalaris Football center and the renovations at Old College Field.

He also officially hired current football coach Mark Dantonio before Mark Hollis took over as AD in 2008.

One of my earliest hockey memories is when my dad took me to Munn Ice Arena in East Lansing, I believe it was in 1984 to see Michigan State vs. Michigan Tech. That game was the first game I ever went to.  I don't remember much about that game, only that Ron Mason was on the bench with the Spartans coaching them to a victory.

One of my all time favorite coaches, Ron Mason dead at the age of 76.