Today In Penguins History (11/26/1991)

"It's A Great Day For Hockey"

1990-91 Pro Set Bob Johnson NHL Coach

That's been a mantra of the Pittsburgh Penguins since "Badger Bob" took the helm behind the bench in the 1990-91 season.  On this (sad) day in Penguins history, Bob Johnson passed away from brain cancer that had gone un-diagnosed until three months earlier when he suffered a brain aneurysm while working with Team USA in preparation for the Canada Cup tournament.  Scotty Bowman took over coaching the team, eventually leading them to their second and consecutive Stanley Cup victory.  But Bob Johnson's legacy would live on in Pittsburgh and the world of hockey forever.

Badger Bob got his nickname coaching the University of Wisconsin-Madison from 1966-1981.  He led the team to seven NCAA tournaments and won three national titles.  After coaching Team USA in the Canada Cup tournaments in 1973, 1974, and 1975, he got the job as head coach of the US Olympic hockey team in 1976.  His coaching style, rapport with the players, and overall love of the game kept him behind the bench for Team USA in 1981, 1984, and 1987, as well as during the Canada Cup again in 1981.

In 1982, the Calgary Flames hired Badger Bob as head coach and kept him behind the bench for five seasons.  He lead the team to the Stanley Cup finals in 1986, but lost his first trip to the finals against an overpowering Canadiens team.  Johnson eventually took over the position of President of USA Hockey and oversaw the operations of the national program from 1987-1990, when he got his second chance at coaching in the NHL, this time with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

With a team that was built to win it all, Badger Bob led the Penguins to the first franchise Stanley Cup victory and instantly cemented his legacy in the City of Champions.  Always delivering a positive message, Bob Johnson's love of the game was epitomized by his catchphrase.  After his passing, the team dedicated their season to his memory, wearing "BADGER" patches on the sleeves of their sweaters and painting his famous quote on the blue lines of the ice.  At the season end, they had his name engraved on the team's second appearance on the Stanley Cup.

"It's A Great Day For Hockey" now greets fans as they enter the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh.