Michigan State University Spartans ice hockey Coach Danton Cole joins Spartans athletic director Bill Beekman and MSU’s associate athletic director for communications Matt Larson for a conversation on the state and future of college hockey.
Cole says young hockey players have to decide whether to pursue their dreams by playing in college or the Canadian junior leagues.
“Players have to choose which path to take around the age of 16 or 17,” Cole says. “I happen to think college is a better avenue. It covers you academically and covers you athletically if you're good enough. A third of the NHL right now comes out of college hockey, a third comes out of major junior, and a third comes out of Europe. I think you cover yourself from both sides, and it's a better path. Guys certainly have decisions to make.”
Cole recalls his days playing for the Spartans in raucous Munn Arena and he talks about the new construction underway to modernize the arena. He describes how he got interested in coaching, too.
“I really got into the competitive and teaching aspects of coaching,” says Cole. “I get to teach young men and influence lives. I love it.”
MSU Today airs Sunday mornings at 9:00 on 105.1 FM and AM 870.