Bert O’Brien
Ottawa 67’s Advisor, Hockey Operations
Bert O’Brien is a name that is synonymous with the Ottawa 67’s. He was the Assistant Coach for 23 years when Brian “Killer” Kilrea was at the helm and this successful partnership has left behind a legacy that very few can hope to match.
Together this duo has helped the 67’s win the 1998-99 Memorial Cup, the 2000-01 J Ross Robertson Cup and also guided the team to four OHL finals.
The quiet and unassuming O’Brien teamed up with Kilrea on the 67’s bench in 1986 and went on to coach for a remarkable 23 seasons. With the 67’s, he was responsible for coaching the defencemen and has helped the development of players like Nick Boynton, Brian Campbell and Brendan Bell. There are many more players who have learned under the tutelage of O’Brien and have gone on to play professional hockey.
Before his role as assistant coach with the 67’s, O’Brien had a nine-year stint with the 67’s junior B team. He bought that team for S1 along with right-hand man Bill MacAndrew and together they guided the team to three Ottawa District Hockey Association championships.
As a testament to his companionship with Kilrea, O’Brien retired from the 67’s as assistant coach the same year that Kilrea stepped back from coaching in 2009. The City of Ottawa honoured O’Brien earlier that season by proclaiming March 6, 2009 as Bert O’Brien Day.
O’Brien has received the Bill Long Award for his long and distinguished service in the OHL.
He now serves as Advisor, Hockey Operation with the 67’s, guiding the team with his immeasurable experience and knowledge.