Charlie Burggraf, who was set to be the head coach of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s franchise in Minnesota, has made the surprising decision to step down from the position just one week before the start of the league’s inaugural season. This news comes as a shock to many, as Burggraf had been appointed to the role in September and was expected to lead the team into their first campaign. Although the reasons behind his departure are unclear, Burggraf has expressed that it was the right move for him and his family at this time.
Replacing Burggraf as the head coach of the Minnesota franchise is former NHL defenseman Ken Klee. Klee brings a wealth of experience and success to the coaching staff, having previously coached the U.S. Women’s National Team to gold medals at the 2015 and 2016 IIHF Women’s World Championships, as well as securing a pair of Four Nations Cup titles. His proven record of achievement makes him an exciting addition to the organization, and everyone involved is thrilled to have him on board.
Charlie Burggraf, a 66-year-old with deep roots in the Minnesota hockey community, has left his mark on the franchise despite his short tenure. Having played youth hockey in Roseau and coached both men’s and women’s hockey at Div. III Bethel in St. Paul, Burggraf has a strong pedigree in the sport. He even served as an assistant coach for the University of Minnesota women’s program during Natalie Darwitz’s playing days with the Gophers. Although his time with the team has come to an end, Burggraf’s contributions to hockey in Minnesota will not be forgotten.
Ken Klee, 52, has an impressive hockey resume of his own. As a former NHL defenseman, Klee played 934 games over 14 seasons in the league. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and found success working with Minnesota players Kendall Coyne and Lee Stecklein on the U.S. Women’s National Team. Klee’s experience as an assistant coach for the AHL Syracuse Crunch from 2017 to 2019 further solidified his coaching abilities. With his extensive background and knowledge of the game, Klee is expected to make a significant impact on the Minnesota franchise.
The Professional Women’s Hockey League is set to begin its first season next week, and anticipation is building for the start of an exciting new era in women’s hockey. With six inaugural franchises, the league is showcasing some of the best women’s national team players from the U.S. and Canada, as well as former players from the now-defunct Premier Hockey Federation. Minnesota’s inaugural season will kick off on January 3 in Boston, and fans are eager to see what the team, under the guidance of new head coach Ken Klee, can achieve in their debut campaign.
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