Craig Berube: A Master of Discipline and Intensity

Craig Berube, a man of few words and unwavering determination, has emerged as one of the most respected and successful coaches in the NHL. Known for his rigid discipline, relentless work ethic, and no-nonsense approach, Berube has guided his teams to unprecedented heights. This article delves into the coaching philosophy and remarkable achievements of Craig Berube.

The Craig Berube Philosophy: Discipline, Intensity, and Work Ethic

At the core of Berube's coaching philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to discipline. He believes that structure, accountability, and attention to detail are essential ingredients for success. Berube demands that his players adhere to strict systems and execute each task with precision.

Intensity is another defining characteristic of Berube's coaching style. He expects his players to approach every game with the same level of fire and passion that he himself exudes. Berube's players are taught to compete relentlessly, never give up on a play, and push themselves to the limit.

Finally, work ethic is a non-negotiable for Berube. He believes that there is no substitute for hard work and dedication. Berube sets an example for his players by working tirelessly and holding everyone on his team accountable for their effort.

Success at Every Level

Berube's coaching philosophy has translated into tangible success at every level he has coached. As an assistant coach with the Philadelphia Flyers, he helped guide the team to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2010.

In 2018, Berube took over as head coach of the St. Louis Blues, a team that had missed the playoffs for two consecutive seasons. Under Berube's leadership, the Blues underwent a remarkable transformation, culminating in a stunning Stanley Cup victory in 2019.

Achievements:

• Stanley Cup Champion as head coach of the St. Louis Blues (2019)
• NHL Coach of the Year (2019)
• Jack Adams Award for NHL Coach of the Year (2019)

In addition to these accomplishments, Berube has also coached Team USA at the IIHF World Championships, winning a silver medal in 2023.

3 Stories That Highlight Berube's Coaching Genius

Story 1: The Lazarus Blues

When Berube took over as head coach of the St. Louis Blues in January 2018, the team was languishing at the bottom of the NHL standings. Despite their dismal record, Berube refused to give up on his players. He instilled a sense of belief and discipline into the team, and his hard work began to pay off. The Blues went on to finish the season with a respectable record and made a surprise run to the playoffs.

What We Learn:

Berube's relentless belief in his players shows that even the most struggling teams can turn things around with hard work and the right coaching.

Story 2: The No-Nonsense Approach

Berube is not afraid to hold his players accountable, even if it means making tough decisions. In one instance, he benched his star player, Vladimir Tarasenko, for violating team rules. This bold move sent a clear message that Berube would not tolerate any lack of discipline or effort.

What We Learn:

Berube's willingness to hold his players accountable creates a culture of excellence and respect within the team.

Story 3: The X-Factor

In the 2019 Stanley Cup Finals against the Boston Bruins, the Blues were down 3-2 in the series. Faced with elimination, Berube rallied his team with an impassioned speech. He emphasized the importance of believing in themselves and playing with heart. The Blues responded by winning Game 6 in overtime and ultimately capturing the Stanley Cup in Game 7.

What We Learn:

Berube's ability to motivate his players and bring out their best, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills.

A Step-by-Step Approach to Coaching Like Craig Berube

Step 1: Establish Clear Expectations

Communicate your expectations to your players clearly and concisely. Outline the team's goals, systems, and rules.

Step 2: Hold Players Accountable

Enforce your expectations by holding players accountable for their actions. Be fair but firm, and provide constructive criticism when necessary.

Step 3: Foster a Culture of Discipline

Create a culture where discipline is valued and rewarded. Ensure that players adhere to the team's rules and standards.

Step 4: Encourage Hard Work

Instill a strong work ethic in your players. Set high standards and encourage them to push themselves to the limit.

Step 5: Stay Positive and Motivated

Maintain a positive attitude, even when things are tough. Motivate your players by showing them that you believe in their abilities.

Pros and Cons of Coaching Like Craig Berube

Pros:

• Creates a disciplined and structured team
• Inspires players to compete with intensity
• Promotes a culture of accountability
• Can lead to significant team success

Cons:

• Can be demanding and stressful for players
• May not be suitable for all players or teams
• Can lead to conflict if expectations are not met

Conclusion

Craig Berube is a true coaching icon, known for his unwavering commitment to discipline, intensity, and work ethic. His success at every level he has coached is a testament to the effectiveness of his philosophy. By following in Berube's footsteps, aspiring coaches can create a winning culture and inspire their players to reach their full potential.

Tables

Table 1: Craig Berube's Key Philosophies

Table 2: Craig Berube's Coaching Achievements

Table 3: Pros and Cons of Coaching Like Craig Berube