Coach Don Perkins

Founder, Brebeuf Jesuit Hockey

A Legacy That Started by Chance

The Brebeuf Jesuit Hockey Club began in 1989, almost by accident.

At the time, Don Perkins was 25 years old and nearing the end of his professional hockey career. During his final season, he happened to meet a local physician whose son was a student at Brebeuf. The boy was getting ready to start high school hockey, and his father wanted to start a school team — but they needed a coach.

That simple connection turned out to be the start of something lasting. It was the moment player Don Perkins became Coach Perkins, and Brebeuf hockey was born.

1990

Building the Foundation

The first team took the ice in 1990 with 25 players and a lot of enthusiasm. From the start, the program had the full backing of the school, administration, and parents. Despite being new to high school hockey, the team made a strong playoff run that year — proof that heart and hard work could make up for inexperience.

A year later, in 1991, Coach Perkins led Brebeuf to its first state championship, defeating more established programs and setting the tone for the years ahead.

“Winning matters, but how we carry ourselves matters more.”

— Coach Don Perkins

Coaching Philosophy

My goal as a coach has always been to help players grow into the best version of themselves — as athletes, teammates, and people.

Our team is built on trust, respect, and accountability. We play for each other, and we care for each other.

I want every player to lead with integrity, appreciate the opportunity they've been given, and use their talents to make a difference.

If a player has been cut or overlooked, our program gives them an opportunity to keep playing, keep growing, and keep believing in themselves.

Hockey is bigger than the scoreboard. It's about learning discipline, humility, and teamwork — lessons that last long after the game ends.

State Championships

Brebeuf Jesuit Hockey Titles

1991 — State Champions
2001 — State Champions
2006 — Class 1A State Champions
2013 — Class 4A State Champions

A Tradition That Lives On

Coach Perkins' impact reaches far beyond the wins. The lessons he taught — about effort, opportunity, and brotherhood — still shape the Brebeuf program today.

Every winter, former players return for the annual Alumni Game, a 25+ year tradition that brings together generations of Braves.

Many are now parents themselves, but when they step on the ice, the energy and spirit feel just like they did back in the early days.

Brebeuf hockey isn't just about playing a sport. It's about belonging to something bigger — a family built on faith, teamwork, and pride in what it means to wear the Brebeuf jersey.

“The goal has always been to form young men & women of character — on the ice and in life.”