Army West Point assistant McKelvie tabbed new head coach at Bethel

CHRIS McKELVIE

Bethel has announced Chris McKelvie as the next head coach of the men’s hockey program.

McKelvie, who was an NCAA Division I assistant the last two seasons at Army West Point, is the ninth head coach in program history.

He replaces Charlie Burggraf, who resigned on March 1, 2018.

“I look forward to the impact Coach McKelvie will have on the ethos of Bethel hockey,” said Bethel director of athletics Bob Bjorklund in a statement. “Chris’ 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.”

Prior to his coaching stint at Army, McKelvie played seven seasons in the AHL with Harford and Albany.

“I am very honored to be entrusted with this opportunity at Bethel,” added McKelvie. “It was clear to me through the interviewing process that Bethel is a special place that is set apart. Thank you to Mr. Bjorklund and the rest of the hiring committee. I look forward to getting started and working with the young men on the hockey team.”

McKelvie graduated from Bemidji State in 2009 with a degree in Sport Management. He helped lead the Beavers to the 2009 NCAA Frozen Four as a team captain.