Cap Raeder's journey through the world of hockey is marked by his roles as both a player and a coach. Born on October 8, 1953, in Needham, Massachusetts, Raeder's early years in hockey began to take shape during his time at the University of New Hampshire. As a goaltender, he played for the university's team, the Wildcats, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation for his abilities between the pipes.
After college, Raeder transitioned to professional hockey, signing with the New England Whalers of the World Hockey Association (WHA). His tenure with the Whalers provided him with valuable experience, although he spent much of his time as a backup goaltender. Despite limited playing time, Raeder's presence on the team contributed to the Whalers' competitive spirit during the league's existence.
Following the WHA's merger with the National Hockey League (NHL), Raeder briefly joined the NHL ranks. He played a single game for the Hartford Whalers during the 1979-1980 season, marking his official entry into the NHL. Although his time as an NHL player was short-lived, it was a testament to his perseverance and skill as a goaltender.
Transitioning from playing to coaching, Raeder found a new calling behind the bench. He began his coaching career as an assistant coach with the University of New Hampshire, where he once played. His understanding of the game and ability to mentor young players quickly became apparent, leading to further opportunities in coaching.
Raeder's coaching career expanded into professional hockey, where he served as an assistant coach for several NHL teams. His roles included stints with the Los Angeles Kings, Boston Bruins, and San Jose Sharks. Throughout his coaching career, Raeder was known for his expertise in working with goaltenders, helping to develop and refine their skills.
In addition to his NHL coaching roles, Raeder also contributed to the development of hockey at the international level. He was involved with the United States national team, serving as an assistant coach during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. His involvement in international competition highlighted his ability to adapt to different levels of play and his commitment to the growth of hockey in the United States.
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