Trenton’s Mike Turner named 2015 National Coach of the Year

Trenton coach Mike Turner talks to his players during the game that saw him match the all-time wins total. (Photo by Andrew Knapik/MiHockey)
Trenton coach Mike Turner talks to his players during the game that saw him match the all-time wins total. (Photo by Andrew Knapik/MiHockey)

 

By @MichaelCaples –

After 28 years of coaching and 11 state championships, Mike Turner has earned plenty of accolades during his time with the Trenton high school hockey program.

On June 20, however, he was recognized on the national stage.

The longtime Trenton coach was named the 2015 National Coach of the Year in the ‘special sports – hockey’ category by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association.

Turner accepts his national coach of the year plaque (photo courtesy of the MIHL)
Turner accepts his national coach of the year plaque (photo courtesy of the MIHL)

“Most importantly, I would like to thank all the players who played hard for me and represented Trenton High School Hockey so well,” Turner said in a release from the MIHL. “Whether we won the championship, or not, I will always be thankful for their efforts.”

Turner was nominated by the Michigan High School Hockey Coaches Association for a selection that was based on longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years and winning percentage.

The NHSACA is the oldest coaches association in the country, and they have been recognizing national coaches of the year since 1978.

Turner has many memories from his lengthy coaching career, but a few stood out more than the others.

“One of my favorite teams would certainly be Trenton’s first MHSAA State Championship team in 1976. But my most favorite would be the 1996 MHSAA State Championship team. We were 28-0-0. No team since has been undefeated and untied. We were the first to do so since Lakeview did it in 1975. My son was elected captain by his team mates. What a thrill to coach your son at this level and to share that experience with him.”

MIHL president Andy Weidenbach had high praise for Turner, as well.

“Everyone in the hockey world who knows Mike knows what a great guy he is and that he’s also a great competitor. You have to admire his record – a record against the best teams in the state, year in and year out. His name is synonymous with the tradition that is Trenton high school hockey.”