Bethel Names Chris McKelvie as Head Men’s Hockey Coach
April 18, 2018 | 2:30 p.m.
By Bethel Athletics
Chris McKelvie comes to Bethel from Division I Army West Point.
“I look forward to the impact Coach McKelvie will have on the ethos of Bethel hockey,” says Director of Athletics Bob Bjorklund. “His performance credentials are impressive, but even more inspiring is his ambition to build Christ-centered character into the lives of our student athletes. I'm excited for our men's hockey players and thrilled to bring his many talents into the culture of our athletic department.”
McKelvie comes to Bethel after spending the last two seasons at Army West Point. The Black Knights finished 35-29-11 during his tenure, with a sweep over No. 19-ranked Air Force (who participated in the 2018 Frozen Four) and a win over No. 13 New Hampshire during the 2017-18 campaign.
Prior to his coaching stint at Army, McKelvie spent seven seasons in the American Hockey League with two different teams. He began with the Harford Wolf Pack, but spent the majority of his career with the Albany Devils—the top affiliate of the New Jersey Devils. He appeared in 272 career AHL games with 22 goals and 39 assists for 61 points. He recorded a career-high 21 points with nine goals and 12 assists in 2013-14 for the Devils.
“I am very honored to be entrusted with this opportunity at Bethel,” says McKelvie. “It was clear to me through the interviewing process that Bethel is a special place that is set apart…I look forward to getting started and working with the young men on the hockey team."
The New Brighton, Minnesota, native graduated from Bemidji State University with a degree in Sport Management in 2009. He helped lead the Beavers to the 2009 NCAA Frozen Four as a team captain. Prior to playing at BSU, McKelvie skated three years with the Bozeman IceDogs—a member of the NAHL—with his twin brother Zach.