Laker Hockey Legend Receives National Award

Pete Sears ’71

The American Hockey Coaches Association has named Oswego All-American goalie Pete Sears ’71 winner of its annual John Mariucci Award. He will be recognized on April 26 during the 2017 AHCA Convention in Naples, Florida.

The award honors a secondary school association coach who best exemplifies the spirit, dedication and enthusiasm of Mari- ucci, a former University of Minnesota player and coach who was also a driving force behind the growth of hockey in the United States.

Sears’ career as a goalie at Oswego State was interrupted by a tour serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, but he returned to complete his degree and assume his role on the Lakers team. He was also a member of the 1972 U.S. Olympic team, winning the silver medal in Sapporo, Japan. Following his Olympic experience, he played three seasons of professional hockey.

He returned to Oswego and served as a middle school teacher for 30 years, including 23 years as coach of the Oswego high school hockey team that captured 10 league championships. He also assisted the Lakers for many years as the goaltender coach.

Among his accomplishments: 10 league titles, five sectional titles, four NYS regional championships, three-time NY state finalist along with nine NYS Section 3 sportsmanship awards.

Sears was awarded the Peter Rush Award from NYS hockey for outstanding service and commitment to the growth of hockey in NYS. He was inducted into the NYS High School Hall of Fame in 2000 for dedication to the sport and his coaching success.