Jackson Keane is embarking on a significant new chapter, trading one familiar shade of green for another as he assumes an assistant coaching role with the Bemidji State Beavers Hockey team. This pivotal move signifies Keane’s unwavering commitment to developing as a college hockey coach and contributing to the rich tradition of NCAA Hockey Coaching, particularly within the highly competitive Central Collegiate Hockey Association. His journey from a prominent player to a rising figure on the coaching staff is a testament to his dedication and profound understanding of the game.
Having spent four years playing for the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, where he registered five goals and nine assists in 72 games, Keane brings invaluable firsthand experience from the ice. After a brief professional stint in the ECHL, his passion for the strategic nuances of hockey solidified his desire to transition into coaching. This direct experience as a player, especially at the NCAA Division I level, provides him with a unique perspective on player development and team dynamics, making him a formidable addition to the Bemidji State Beavers staff.
Keane’s coaching ascent began with the Winnipeg Blues in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League in 2022, a team he previously played for. This initial foray into coaching allowed him to quickly immerse himself in the profession, with former coach Alex Mandolidis providing significant autonomy and opportunities for hands-on experience, including running drills and being on the bench. This early, practical exposure was crucial in shaping his coaching philosophy and preparing him for subsequent, more demanding roles.
Following his tenure with the Winnipeg Blues, Keane joined the Fargo Force in the United States Hockey League (USHL Assistant Coach) where he played a crucial role in their historic 2023-24 season, culminating in a Clark Cup victory. His experience with the Force, particularly as the director of scouting, broadened his understanding of the hockey operations side, encompassing travel logistics, player scouting, and team management. This comprehensive background is a significant asset for the Beavers as they seek to strengthen their program.
The move to Bemidji State fills a vacancy left by Andrew Magera, another former Force assistant, and brings Keane back to familiar territory, as the Beavers often face North Dakota. He expressed genuine excitement about these matchups, viewing them as an opportunity for competitive engagement with a program deeply ingrained in his past. This personal connection to the region and its hockey landscape adds an intriguing layer to his new coaching challenge.
Keane’s philosophy on recruitment aligns seamlessly with Bemidji State’s established culture, which emphasizes hard work and finding players who not only excel on the ice but also fit the team’s ethos. He recognizes the evolving landscape of player acquisition and is eager to apply his scouting expertise, honed during his USHL Assistant Coach role, to identify promising talent across various leagues. His commitment to identifying players who embody the “Beavers” spirit is central to his approach.
Despite the high turnover rate often associated with assistant coaching roles in college hockey, Keane approaches his position with a focused, day-by-day mindset. His primary objective is continuous learning and development as a hockey coach, aiming to contribute significantly to Bemidji State’s success. He is driven by a strong desire to win and to utilize his knowledge and experience to help the Bemidji State Beavers achieve their championship aspirations. His singular focus on winning and maximizing his impact underscores his professional drive.
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