SUNY Potdam

Chris Bernard

Bears to be Led by North Country Standout

07.02.09

(POTSDAM, NY) Chris Bernard has been named the new Men’s Ice Hockey Coach at SUNY Potsdam according to Bears Athletic Director Jim Zalacca.

“Chris's infectious personality and passion for hockey combined with his knowledge, not only for his sport but the North Country and all it has to offer potential student athletes, made for a perfect fit for our college and athletic program. I am excited to begin working with Chris,” stated Zalacca.

Bernard comes to Potsdam from Western New England College where he led the Division III Golden Bears during the past three seasons. Prior to his tenure at WNEC, Bernard was an assistant coach at Division I Canisius College during the 2005-06 season. He also served as an assistant coach with the St. Louis Sting of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) during the 2001-02 season.

“I’m fully grateful to Jim Zalacca, the search committee and everyone at SUNY Potsdam for choosing me for such a great opportunity,” noted Coach Bernard.

From 1998 through 2004 Bernard played professional hockey with the Mohawk Valley Prowlers and the Missouri River Otters of the United Hockey League (UHL), as well as, the Fayetteville Force of the Central Hockey League (CHL).

A native of Brasher Falls, Bernard played college hockey for the Division I Clarkson Golden Knights where he was the recipient of the Mike Morrison Scholarship for athletic and academic excellence. He compiled a .964 career winning percentage as goalie including a 13-0-1 tally his senior year at Clarkson.

During his tenure, the Golden Knights won two ECAC regular season championship titles and participated in four NCAA Tournaments. Clarkson also enjoyed four seasons of at least 20-wins and tallied a 98-39-10 record during Bernard’s four years.

In 1998 Bernard earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Technical Communications from Clarkson. He later received a Masters of Science degree in Sports Administration from Canisius.

As President and Founder of Goaltender Enhancement Programs, Bernard directs a business that is dedicated to the development of aspiring young goaltenders. He also serves as Director of Coaching for Lake Placid’s Can-Am Hockey Schools.

Chris and his wife Tracy are the parents of two sons, three-year old Jaxon and Brandon who is one.