Bill Butters - Former NHLer - Hockey Ministries - Hockey Journey EP58

My next guest is former WHA player and NHLer Bill Butters.  I've been excited about this interview since I booked it, as Mr. Butters was one of my coaches when I played at the University of Minnesota. He made a huge positive impact on my life, during the four years I played for the Gophers.   Mr. Butters is a Minnesota Native and carved his path to professional hockey, eventually the NHL, not by putting many points up on the board, but by bringing crowds to their feet, by what he could do with his fists.  Back in the 1970s, if you weren't a skill guy or Canadian, the only way to make it past college hockey, if you were an American, was by fighting, and that's exactly what Mr. Butters did, playing 7 professional seasons, playing 299 games and registering 607 penalty minutes. Before turning pro, Mr. Butters played four seasons at the University of Minnesota, where he was mentored by two hockey icons, Glen Sonmor and legendary coach Herb Brooks.  Those two would weave in and out of Bill's life and support him as there were some struggles along the way.  Let's not forget his wife Deb, who also stood by his side during a dark period of his journey. Mr. Butters enjoyed a 14-year college coaching career as an assistant at the University of Minnesota, the University of Wisconsin, and Bethel College. Ever since I've known him, he's had a higher power guiding him along the way.  That passion and commitment is seen clearly through his work over the years with Hockey Ministries International and Christian Hockey Camps International, mentoring hockey players worldwide, and spreading the word of the Lord.   In addition to all of the hockey stuff, he's a husband of 50 years this year, father of 3, and grandfather of 7, so we have a lot to talk about.  I've included the link to Hockey Ministries International if you'd like to learn more about what Mr. Butters has been involved with for over 40 years.  Enjoy the interview, and thanks for stopping by for a listen!!  Have a great Day!! Hockey Ministries International - https://www.hockeyministries.org/