Inductees

Builder

Murray Armstrong

Murray Armstrong was born in Manor, Sask., on New Year’s Day, 1916. Armstrong’s Junior hockey career began with the Regina Pats, where he appeared in the 1933 Memorial Cup. Following his time in Regina, Armstrong had short stints in the Eastern Hockey League and in the International-American Hockey League (IAHL). During the 1936-37 season of the IAHL, Armstrong and the Syracuse Stars would claim the Calder Cup as league champions. It was during the 1937-38 season that Armstrong would make his National Hockey League (NHL) debut with the Toronto Maple Leafs. During his time in the NHL, Armstrong would play for the New York Americans and Detroit Red Wings. In 270 career NHL games, Armstrong scored 67 goals and 121 assists for 188 points.

After Armstrong’s playing days, he would enjoy a long and distinguished coaching career. Armstrong returned to the Regina Pats organization, coaching the team for eight seasons, from 1948-56. Armstrong led the club to five Western Hockey League finals and four Memorial Cup appearances. Following his time with the Pats, Armstrong would accept a coaching position at the University of Denver, where he would coach from 1955 to 1977. During his tenure, Armstrong found success at the NCAA level capturing five NCAA championships for the Pioneers.

In 1974, Armstrong was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame and in 1977 would receive the Lester Patrick Trophy for his outstanding service to hockey in the United States. Armstrong was also inducted into the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame in 1981.