Kevin Dineen's journey in professional hockey is marked by his tenacity and skill on the ice. Born on October 28, 1963, in Quebec City, Canada, Dineen grew up in a hockey family, with his father, Bill Dineen, being a former NHL player and coach. This environment undoubtedly influenced his path into the sport.
Dineen began his NHL career with the Hartford Whalers, who selected him 56th overall in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. He made his debut in the 1984-85 season and quickly established himself as a reliable forward. Known for his gritty playing style and leadership qualities, Dineen became a fan favorite in Hartford. Over the years, he consistently contributed both offensively and defensively, earning respect from teammates and opponents alike.
In 1991, Dineen was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, where he continued to demonstrate his abilities as a forward. His time with the Flyers was marked by consistent performance, and he played a crucial role in the team's efforts during the early 1990s. After a few seasons, Dineen returned to the Whalers, where he continued to be a key player until the franchise relocated to become the Carolina Hurricanes.
Dineen's career also included stints with the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Ottawa Senators. Throughout his time in the NHL, he was known for his work ethic and ability to contribute in various situations, whether on the power play or penalty kill. His leadership on and off the ice was recognized when he served as captain for both the Whalers and the Blue Jackets.
After retiring as a player, Dineen transitioned into coaching. He took on the role of head coach for the Portland Pirates in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he led the team to several successful seasons. His coaching career progressed as he became the head coach of the Florida Panthers in the NHL. Under his guidance, the Panthers made significant strides, including a division title in the 2011-2012 season.
Dineen's coaching career also extended to the international stage. He was appointed head coach of the Canadian women's national team, leading them to a gold medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. This achievement highlighted his ability to adapt and succeed in different coaching environments.
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