Former Flyers Coach Pat Quinn Dies At Age 71
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Former Flyers Coach Pat Quinn passed away on Sunday at the age of 71 following a lengthy illness. News of Quinn's passing was announced by the Vancouver Giants of the Western Hockey League. Quinn was a co-owner for the Giants.
Quinn coached the Flyers from 1979-82. Quinn led the Flyers to the Stanley Cup Final in 1980.
During his time in Philadelphia, Quinn led the Flyers to a 35 game unbeaten streak in 1979-80. That streak still stands as an NHL record.
Several members of the Flyers organization released statements on Monday to express their sadness in light of the news.
"It is a sad day for our sport. Pat Quinn was an outstanding hockey coach. He had an excellent career as a player, coach, general manager and hockey executive. He was terrific at everything he did, including Chair of the Hockey Hall of Fame. He truly knew how to get our players to play hard every night. Through his leadership, motivation and drive, he led one of our most exciting teams - the streak team - during the 1979-80 season, which went 35 straight games without a loss en route to the Stanley Cup Finals.
"Over the years, Pat and I shared many great memories of his time in Philadelphia. He will truly be missed by all of us. I'd like to send my condolences to Sandra and all of Pat's family and friends. You are all in our thoughts and prayers." - Flyers Chairman Ed Snider
"This truly is a sad day for the hockey world. Pat Quinn was one of the most respected people in our business. A players coach at heart, his innovative systems and love of the game made it a delight for all who had the honor of playing for him and working with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Pat's wife Sandra, his daughters Valerie and Callie and the entire Quinn family at this difficult time." - Flyers President Paul Holgrem
"He was a hockey guy. His whole life was his family and hockey. I can tell you in hockey circles he was one of the most respected guys around. I don't think anybody disliked him, and I don't think anybody didn't respect the fact that he was kind of all-in with the game.
"He taught a really up-tempo game. His teams played really up-tempo, hard, old-school, fast hockey. I think in that way he was ahead of his time." - Flyers General Manager Ron Hextall
Quinn coached 20 NHL seasons between the Flyers, Kings, Canucks, Maple Leafs and Oilers. He earned a coaching record of 684-528-154 and won Coach of the Year twice. Quinn also played in 606 games for the Maple Leafs, Canucks and the Atlanta Flames.
Quinn was also able to lead Team Canada to a gold medal in the 2002 Winter Olympics.
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