Atlantic Coast Collegiate Hockey League Official Site

I've had the personal privilege and professional honor of leading the ACC Hockey League for 15 years. A lovely young lady who happened to be a varsity coach in her own right, and spouse of a Saint Joseph's hockey coach recently asked "Why do you do this?"  The answer is simple - to associate and give back to the principled players and coaches who have participated or have yet to participate in the most unique collegiate league in the country.  And then there was Hugh - his infectious enthusiasm for his team, the league, and the sport made us all look forward to next season.

There was no person that exemplified that integrity, love of family, extraordinary care for the sport, respect and honor for his team, than Hugh.  His constant strategic feedback to improve the league provided a strong sounding board for our leadership and coaches.  He carried that intense love of family and the game whether he was behind the bench, on the ice wearing the bands, or pontificating with fellow coaches over a full glass of bourbon.  Simply put, Hugh was the consummate prince and gentleman we all strive to be in this league and in life.

I came to know Hugh one evening in December of 2014.  He called my iPhone unannounced to inquire about joining the ACC Hockey League.  In less than 48 hours, the coaches (all had known Hugh or were familiar with his reputation for the professionalism and competitiveness of Saint Joe's) had voted, and Saint Joe's became a permanent member of the League.  Prior to Saint Joseph's first league game the following fall, I was privileged to be counted among Hugh's friends.  

Saint Joseph's hockey quickly became a constant in ACC Hockey - under Hugh's leadership as Coach, then GM, the Hawks set the example on and off the ice.  They set the example in organization, administration, communication, conduct, and competitiveness for even many of our league's legacy teams.  But anyone who knew Hugh, was well aware that his influence would not be limited to Saint Joseph's Hockey.  He had a unique ability to strategically think beyond the box and identify many areas where the league could improve the experience for the student-athletes of all our teams.  Many of his suggestions (which were usually pontificated with bourbon in hand) were adopted into the day to day operations and execution of the league, which added to the players experience.  The Europe trip was his most visible and impactful vision which has now become an annual event for our leagues.

Hugh was also an exceptional referee.  I had the privilege of officiating many ACC games with him, including the entire first annual ACC Women's Tournament.   His positioning was always spot on, he knew the game better than most, his calls were text book.  But most importantly, his demeanor, exceptional communication skills, and his sense of humor gave him the tools to manage every situation that arose on the ice.   There wasn't a game that I officiated with him, where he didn't have several players laughing on the ice after a whistle - he enjoyed getting to know the players.  He earned the respect of the coaches and players alike.

The stories from his hockey family are literally endless.

In my 15 years with the league, I have written hundreds of articles for the league.  None more difficult than this one tonight.  For Hugh passed on 7 March in the company of his family and friends at the young age of 61.  To Mary Pat, his children, and to the entire Saint Joseph's hockey organization, the ACC Hockey League extends our most sincere condolences.  

Hugh was a true prince and gentleman in every sense of the definitions.  He will be dearly missed by all who had the incredible privilege of experiencing his biting humor, his limitless generosity, his quiet (perhaps not so quiet at times), wisdom, all who were honored to play for him, all who skated with him, and all who had the privilege of his friendship.

For his leadership, contributions, and tireless efforts on and off the ice to the benefit of Saint Joseph's Hockey and the ACC Hockey League, Hugh Walsh has been unanimously voted and inducted into the ACC Hockey Hall of Fame, Class of 2025.  He finished his coaching career with 167 wins, 6th on the all-time ACC Hockey leader board.  But his positive impact on Saint Joseph's Hockey and the ACC Hockey League will remain.

I don't partake in libations often, but in the future, whenever I am in the company of friends who knew Hugh, we will raise a glass of bourbon and celebrate his life.  We were blessed to know him - and we all know he will be celebrating with us.  Until we see you again, my friend, fair winds and following seas.