Breaking News: Jared Bednar Officially Announces His Retirement From Professional Hockey at Age 53, Concluding a Storied NHL Career Spanning Over Two Decades With Iconic Moments, Stanley Cup Glory, Olympic Gold, and a Resilient Late-Career Stint With the Colorado Avalanche—The head coach Leaves the Ice for the Final Time as One of the Game’s Most..Read More

In a stunning announcement today, Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar confirmed he is retiring from professional hockey at age 53, bringing to a close an extraordinary career that spanned more than two decades and left an indelible mark on the game.

Bednar, who led the Avalanche to Stanley Cup glory in 2022, is widely celebrated for his strategic brilliance, calm leadership, and relentless work ethic. His coaching tenure was marked by iconic moments, including multiple playoff runs, record-breaking seasons, and a reputation for developing young stars into elite NHL talents.

Beyond the NHL, Bednar also enjoyed success on the international stage, helping guide Team Canada to Olympic Gold as part of its coaching staff—a testament to his global impact on the sport.

Bednar’s coaching journey began in the ECHL and AHL, where he won championships at both levels before being tapped to lead the Avalanche in 2016. His resilient late-career stint in Colorado transformed the franchise from a struggling club into a perennial contender, capped by the unforgettable Stanley Cup win that ended a 21-year championship drought.

Speaking at his emotional press conference, Bednar thanked his players, staff, fans, and family. “This game has given me everything,” he said. “I’ve been privileged to coach incredible athletes, work with the best staff in hockey, and call Colorado home. It’s the right time for me to step away, but I’ll always be part of this game.”

Tributes are already pouring in from across the hockey world, with players, coaches, and executives hailing Bednar as one of the sport’s most respected and accomplished minds. As he leaves the ice for the final time, Jared Bednar departs as not only a Stanley Cup–winning coach but also one of the game’s most admired figures.