Barry MacKenzie

Barry MacKenzie was a fine defensive defenseman out of Father David Bauer's famous national team program.

Barry, a native of Toronto, first met Father Bauer when he played for the St. Mikes Majors from 1960 to 1962. Barry was a part of the Majors Memorial Cup championship team in 1961.

Barry spent the 1962-63 season studying at the University of British Columbia, he joined the Canadian national team in 1963-64.

Father Bauer's Teachings

The national team experience was an valuable asset for all who were involved. Father Bauer made sure his players not only improved as hockey players, but as people. The players travelled a lot back then, not only in Canada, but in Europe too. And Bauer would always have something organized for them to do, whether it be an art gallery or a museum or a cultural gathering. The life experiences Bauer brought to these young men were what these players cherished most.

MacKenzie in total played 5 seasons for the Nats. He appeared in three World Championships (1965, 1966, 1967) and two Olympics (1964 and 1968). In 1968 he earned an Olympic bronze medal in Grenoble.

A Stint In The Pros

Never an offensive threat but as positionally solid as a blueliner could be, Barry tried turning pro following the 1968 Olympics. Originally property of the Toronto Maple Leafs, he was dealt a year earlier to Minnesota. Barry ended up playing most of the year with the Stars farm team in Memphis of all places. He did appear in 6 NHL games, recording 1 assist.

Barry didn't find pro hockey to his liking, at least in comparison to Father Bauer's program. He retired as a player in 1969.

Life After Hockey

But hockey would always be in his blood. He would return to Japan to coach from 1975 to 1978. He returned to Canada in 1978, and in Father Bauer-like fashion served in a variety of capacities including Head Coach, Principal and President at Athol Murray College of Notre Dame in Wilcox, Saskatchewan from 1978-2000. While at Notre Dame, he won national championships at both the midget and junior levels and coached a number of players that went on to play in the NHL including: Rod Brind’Amour, Wendel Clark, Russ Courtnall, Curtis Joseph, James Patrick and Scott Pellerin.

MacKenzie left Notre Dame to become a part of the NHL's Minnesota Wild front office. By 2002 he was named as director of player development.