Marty Wilford is making waves in the NHL as an assistant coach for the Buffalo Sabres. After a solid playing career as a defenceman, he transitioned into coaching, bringing valuable experience to his role.
His journey from player to coach highlights his deep understanding of the game, making him an essential asset for any NHL team looking to improve.
As Wilford continues to shape the development of players, his story also intersects with current NHL news and trends, especially with fantasy hockey enthusiasts.
Fans often look at the impact of coaching styles on player performance, which can influence fantasy hockey rankings and decisions during drafts. Understanding Wilford’s coaching approach offers insights that could prove beneficial for those engaged in fantasy hockey leagues.
Moreover, the financial aspects of coaching in the NHL pique interest as well. While specific figures about Wilford’s net worth are not readily available, NHL assistant coaches can earn significant salaries based on experience and success, further drawing attention to his professional journey.
As the hockey season unfolds, fans and analysts alike are keen to see how Wilford’s contributions will play out for the Sabres and impact the broader NHL landscape.
Who Is Marty Wilford?
Marty Wilford is a former professional ice hockey player and current assistant coach in the NHL. He has a rich background in the sport and has transitioned successfully into coaching.
Understanding his early life, family, and interests provides a fuller picture of who he is.
Where Did Marty Wilford Grow Up?
Marty Wilford was born in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, on April 17, 1977. He grew up in a town known for its passion for hockey.
From a young age, he engaged in youth hockey programs that laid the groundwork for his future in the sport.
Peterborough has a strong hockey tradition, contributing to his development as a player. The community played a significant role in fostering local talent, and Wilford took full advantage of the opportunity.
His early experiences in local leagues paved the way for his selection in the NHL Draft.
Where Does Marty Wilford Live?
Currently, Marty Wilford resides in Buffalo, New York, where he works with the Buffalo Sabres as an assistant coach. Living in Buffalo allows him to be close to the team and the NHL environment.
The city is rich in hockey culture, creating a supportive backdrop for his career.
Before moving to Buffalo, Wilford lived in several places during his playing career. This included time spent in cities across North America and overseas in Europe as he played in leagues like the IHL and AHL. However, Buffalo is now where he has settled, embracing the local community.
Who Is Marty Wilford Married To?
Marty Wilford is married to Julie Wilford. Together, they have built a life that blends their passion for hockey and family.
Julie has been a supportive partner throughout his career transitions, from player to coach.
Their relationship has flourished, and they often share a mutual interest in sports. The couple’s bond is strengthened by their shared experiences, both on and off the ice. Julie has played a critical role in maintaining family life while Marty pursues his coaching career.
Does Marty Wilford Have Children?
Yes, Marty Wilford has children. He and Julie have two kids, adding joy and complexity to their lives.
Family is important to Wilford, and he is known to prioritize spending time with them, balancing his coaching responsibilities with family activities.
His children are growing up in an environment enriched with hockey culture. This upbringing allows them unique insights into the sport, potentially inspiring their paths in athletics. Wilford values family time and creates memories that will last a lifetime.
Marty Wilford’s Off-Ice Interests And Hobbies
Outside of hockey, Marty Wilford enjoys a variety of interests. He is passionate about fitness and often partakes in activities that keep him physically active. This dedication translates into a lifestyle that emphasizes health and well-being.
Wilford also has an interest in community service. He engages in charitable activities, using his platform in hockey to make a positive impact. His efforts help support local organizations and promote sportsmanship among youth.
Additionally, he appreciates spending quality time with friends and family, often engaging in outdoor activities. These hobbies enable him to recharge and maintain a balanced life amid his professional commitments.
Marty Wilford’s Junior And College Hockey Career
Marty Wilford’s hockey journey began in his junior years, where he laid the groundwork for a successful professional career. His time in junior hockey and college shaped his skills and understanding of the game, leading him to the NHL and eventually to coaching.
Where Did Marty Wilford Play Junior Or College Hockey?
Marty Wilford played junior hockey for the Cobourg Cougars in the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL). His time with the Cougars helped him develop as a player before moving on to play in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) for the Columbus Chill.
After his junior career, Wilford played college hockey at Lake Superior State University, where he further honed his skills. His collegiate career showcased his potential as a solid defenseman, contributing significantly to the team’s performance.
Did Marty Wilford Coach Junior Or College Hockey?
After retiring from professional hockey, Marty Wilford began his coaching career, but he focused on higher levels rather than junior or college ranks.
His first coaching role was as an assistant coach for the Syracuse Crunch in the American Hockey League (AHL) in 2011. While he has not specifically coached junior or college teams, his experience at the professional level has allowed him to influence younger players in the sport.
What Awards Did Marty Wilford Accomplish In Junior Or College Hockey?
During his junior hockey career, Wilford made a name for himself but did not collect a significant number of individual awards. However, his strong performance with the Cobourg Cougars helped the team in various league standings.
In college, he contributed to the success of Lake Superior State University and was part of a competitive program that aimed for excellence in the NCAA.
What Major Tournaments Did Marty Wilford Win In Junior Or College Hockey?
Marty Wilford’s junior and college careers saw him participate in several important tournaments. With the Cougars, he took part in the OJHL playoffs, showcasing his defensive skills.
At Lake Superior State, he competed in the NCAA tournaments, instrumental in the team’s pursuit of a national championship. These experiences provided him with valuable exposure to high-stakes competition.
Is Marty Wilford Still Involved With Their Junior Or College Team?
Marty Wilford is not currently involved with any junior or college hockey teams. His career has transitioned to professional coaching, where he focuses on helping players at the AHL and NHL levels.
His experience and background in junior and college hockey, however, inform his coaching style and strategies.
Similar Active Junior Or College Coaches To Marty Wilford
There are several coaches in junior and college hockey who share a similar background as Marty Wilford.
For example, Scott Sandelin, head coach of the University of Minnesota Duluth, has a history of playing at high levels before transitioning to coaching. Another is Mike Hastings, who coaching at Minnesota State University also played junior hockey.
These coaches, like Wilford, use their experiences to guide young players in developing their skills and understanding of the game.
Marty Wilford’s Professional Hockey Career
Marty Wilford has had a diverse career in professional hockey as both a player and a coach. His journey includes significant accomplishments in the NHL, AHL, and international leagues. The following sections explore his playing history, coaching background, awards, playoff performance, and coaching style, providing a well-rounded view of his contributions to the sport.
Did Marty Wilford Play In The NHL?
Marty Wilford played in the NHL for parts of three seasons. He made his NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks after being drafted in the 6th round of the 1995 NHL Entry Draft.
Wilford played mainly as a defenceman, with 34 total NHL games to his name. His time in the NHL included stints with the Blackhawks and a few other teams, showcasing his skills as a reliable blue-liner.
What Teams Has Marty Wilford Coached In The NHL?
After retiring as a player, Wilford shifted to coaching. He started as an assistant coach with the Syracuse Crunch in the AHL.
His coaching path progressed to the NHL, where he served as an assistant coach for the Anaheim Ducks. Currently, he is an assistant coach with the Buffalo Sabres. Each role has allowed him to mentor players and develop strategies, reflecting his deep understanding of the game.
What Awards Has Marty Wilford Won In The NHL?
While Marty Wilford did not win major individual NHL awards, he achieved recognition during his playing days in the AHL.
One notable mention is his inclusion in the AHL All-Star Classic, which showcases the league’s top talent. As a coach, while still early in his career, he is gaining respect for his contributions and may earn accolades in the future.
How Has Marty Wilford Performed In The Playoffs?
Marty Wilford had limited playoff experience as a player in the NHL. He played one playoff game with Chicago, contributing to the team’s early rounds.
In his coaching career, he has yet to experience the playoffs with the Sabres. His focus remains on developing his team’s performance for potential future playoff success.
Has Marty Wilford Won A Stanley Cup?
Marty Wilford has not won a Stanley Cup as a player or coach. His time in the NHL was brief and did not include deep playoff runs.
His coaching roles, especially with the Sabres and previously with the Ducks, offer a chance for future opportunities to contend for the Stanley Cup as he helps build strong teams.
What Coaching Style Is Marty Wilford Known For?
Wilford is known for his supportive coaching style, focusing on player development. He emphasizes strong defensive play, helping young players like Hampus Lindholm improve their skills.
His experience as a player gives him a unique ability to relate to athletes, fostering a positive team environment. Wilford’s approach blends tactical instruction with encouraging teamwork.
Similar NHL Coaches To Marty Wilford
Coaches similar to Marty Wilford often share a background in playing at high levels and transitioning to coaching. These include successful assistants and head coaches who focus on defense and player development.
Examples are coaches like Lindy Ruff and John Hynes, who also emphasize strong defensive systems and mentorship for younger players.
Will Marty Wilford Make The Hall Of Fame?
The induction of Marty Wilford into the Hall of Fame is uncertain at this point. His playing career lacked significant accolades, which typically influence Hall of Fame selections.
However, his potential as a coach remains, and should he lead teams to success in the future, it could bolster his chances for recognition as a notable figure in the sport.
Future Prospects For Marty Wilford
Marty Wilford is currently making strides in his coaching career with the Buffalo Sabres. His future could involve various paths, including broadcasting, speaking engagements, and community initiatives. These opportunities highlight his connection to the hockey world and his desire to impact players and fans alike.
Does Marty Wilford Want To Go Into Broadcasting?
As of now, there have been no official announcements about Marty Wilford transitioning into broadcasting.
His focus remains on coaching and player development with the Sabres. Though broadcasting could be a natural next step, especially considering his playing background, Wilford seems committed to honing his coaching skills for the time being.
Should he choose to enter this field, his insights from on-ice experience and coaching could provide valuable commentary.
Does Marty Wilford Do Speaking Engagements?
Marty Wilford has participated in a few speaking engagements. These events often focus on player development and the importance of teamwork.
He shares his journey and lessons learned throughout his career, aiming to inspire young athletes. Engaging with aspiring players allows him to give back to the community and promote fundamental values in sports.
While he doesn’t have a large number of public engagements, those he attends are well received and impactful.
Does Marty Wilford Have A Podcast?
Currently, Marty Wilford does not host a podcast. With the rise of sports-related podcasts, many fans may be curious if he plans to start one in the future.
Given his extensive knowledge of hockey, a podcast could allow him to discuss strategies, team dynamics, and player experiences. If he decides to create one, it could become a platform for sharing insights with fans and engaging in conversations about the sport.
Does Marty Wilford Run A Hockey Camp?
Marty Wilford has been involved in running hockey camps. These camps focus on skill development and fostering a love for the game among youth players.
His experience as a former NHL player and coach provides valuable teaching moments for young athletes. Running these camps helps him nurture the next generation of hockey talent, potentially impacting those who may become draft-eligible prospects in the future.
Does Marty Wilford Run A Foundation?
There is currently no public information indicating that Marty Wilford runs a foundation. However, many athletes choose to start foundations to give back to the community.
If he were to start one, it could focus on youth hockey initiatives or supporting underserved communities interested in the sport. Such a foundation could align with his values and desire to influence young players positively. Running a foundation would further enhance his profile beyond coaching and reinforce his commitment to the hockey community.
Marty Wilford’s Contract And Business Venture Information
Marty Wilford is currently involved in several aspects of his career, including his coaching contract and potential business opportunities. This section explores the terms of his current contract, possible incentives, any endorsements he may have, and his entrepreneurial pursuits.
Marty Wilford’s Current Contract Details
Marty Wilford signed a contract with the Buffalo Sabres as an assistant coach. Specific financial terms of his contract have not been publicly disclosed, which is common for NHL coaching contracts.
Assistant coaches typically earn between $200,000 to $400,000 annually, depending on experience and team budget.
His role involves designing practices, analyzing game footage, and assisting the head coach in various strategic decisions. Wilford’s experience coaching in different leagues, including the AHL and NHL, reinforces his value to the Sabres’ coaching staff. His contract reflects the trust the organization places in him to develop player potential, especially among defensemen.
What Are Marty Wilford’s Current Contract Incentives?
While exact details about Wilford’s contract incentives are not public, NHL coaching contracts often include performance bonuses.
These bonuses can be tied to team success, such as making the playoffs or achieving specific milestones. For assistant coaches, bonuses may also be related to player development and individual player performances.
If defensemen under his guidance show marked improvement, he could receive additional compensation. This aligns with the franchise’s goal of fostering young talent and enhancing team performance.
What Endorsements Does Marty Wilford Have?
Currently, there is no publicly available information regarding endorsements directly linked to Marty Wilford. In the NHL, assistant coaches usually do not have many endorsements compared to high-profile players.
Endorsements typically depend on visibility and marketability. While he may not have major endorsements, his reputation among players and coaching peers can lead to potential partnerships in the future. As Wilford continues his coaching career, opportunities may arise, especially if he helps bolster the Sabres’ success.
What Are Marty Wilford’s Business Ventures
Marty Wilford has not widely publicized any business ventures outside of hockey. Many coaches choose to focus solely on their coaching careers, as their time and energy are primarily dedicated to their teams.
However, some coaches engage in activities like hockey clinics or camps to share their knowledge and skills. Should Wilford decide to pursue such ventures, he could build a brand around his coaching philosophy and experience. For now, his focus remains firmly on his role with the Buffalo Sabres, where he aims to make a significant impact.
Marty Wilford’s Net Worth
Marty Wilford has built a successful career as both a player and a coach in professional hockey. His net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million. This range considers his earnings from his playing days and current coaching positions.
During his NHL career, Wilford played for teams such as the Chicago Blackhawks and the Anaheim Ducks. His salary as a player contributed significantly to his financial stability.
After retiring, he transitioned into coaching, starting with the Syracuse Crunch in 2011. His experience and expertise have allowed him to move up in the ranks to become an assistant coach with the Buffalo Sabres. Coaches in the NHL can earn substantial salaries, further enhancing Wilford’s net worth.
Here’s a brief overview of his career earnings:
| Career Phase | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| NHL Player Salary | $1 million + |
| Coaching Salary | Estimated $200,000/year |
Wilford’s steady rise in coaching and his prior successes as a player are key factors in his financial profile. As he continues to grow in his coaching role, his net worth may increase further.