A Tribute to Mike Sertich

Fred Friedman – "Mike was a UMD classmate of mine and a high character person who did not limit his interest and friendship and support to the hockey community. He loved UMD and the Range and lived his life with courage. An exemplary person."

John Gilbert – "When Sertie took over the UMD program, it had gotten started, then gotten into the WCHA, and Gus Hendrickson, with Sertich assisting, got the Bulldogs established as a destination for Northern Minnesota players. But something was missing, and as head coach Sertie added an upbeat, clever, and unifying factor that led the Bulldogs to crest that very difficult peak of winning championships. He led UMD to its first three WCHA titles and was named coach of the year his first three years at the helm. Getting everybody on the team to buy in and work for each other makes it like a family — a term that has become so overused these days. But under Sertich, the Bulldogs were a true family, and he will forever be remembered as the guy who lifted UMD to the elite level of Division I hockey programs. Without his guidance, UMD might never have won the three NCAA titles Scott Sandelin’s teams have won."

Jim Perrault – "He was a great coach! And an able fisherman!"

Scott Lyons – "I’ve known Sertie for a long time. We played softball together in younger years. We always spoke during our head coach-police chief years. He cheered me up many times. He was one of those people in life that makes life worth it. A loss to our world."

Pete Waggoner – "From my eyes, Mike Sertich is Bulldog hockey and to a greater extent, Iron Range hockey. He was a winner on and off the ice and his legacy will live on. As a kid, I remember watching his teams in the 80’s and noting how his team played – and they had a high compete level. With 24 players that went on to the NHL, it was indicative of the culture he created that was hardworking with skill and character. His involvement off the ice should not be underestimated as he impacted many. We lost a legend."