OHL Alumni – Beyond the Rink: Larry Huras
Former OHL Team: Kitchener Rangers
Years in the OHL: 1972-75
Current Occupation: Co‑Founder / Technical Director (Hockey Coach Vision)
Larry Huras has lived a life shaped by hockey – first as a top OHL draft pick, then as a professional player and coach, and now as a leader in the global sport‑technology space. As Co‑Founder and Technical Director of Hockey Coach Vision, Huras oversees the development of hockey, ringette, and inline hockey programs used by coaches in 38 countries. His work also includes building relationships with international federations and staying closely connected with coaches and customers worldwide.
“It was a natural transition,” Huras says of his path from the ice to software. “From minor hockey in Elmira to the Sugar Kings, to the Rangers, to pro hockey and coaching – it all led to creating a tool that helps coaches and players develop. I was fortunate to meet the right people at the right time.”
From First‑Round Pick to Global Innovator
Huras’ OHL journey began with a moment he’ll never forget: hearing his name called as Kitchener’s first-round pick, 4th overall, with his parents by his side. The Aud was only a short drive from his family home in St. Jacobs, making the milestone even more meaningful.
However, his early years in Kitchener weren’t easy. After a challenging rookie season, Huras leaned on teammates’ encouragement and the lessons instilled by coaches Eddie Bush and Jim Morrison. That perseverance became the foundation of his long career in hockey.
Those lessons carried him through a professional playing career, a successful coaching career, and eventually into entrepreneurship, where he now helps shape the next generation of coaches worldwide.
A Life Still Rooted in Hockey
Huras’ pride in his OHL roots remains strong. Seeing his name on the Captain’s Wall at the Aud in Kitchener is a reminder of where it all began.
“The greatest lesson I learned was perseverance,” he reflects. “My time in Kitchener gave me the mental toughness that helped me through a lot of tough times.”
He also credits teammate Doug Risebrough as a major influence.
“Doug played with a rage that was contagious. I told the guys on other teams they were lucky to face him only once a month – I had to go against him every day. He was a role model for me.”
Today, Huras continues to stay connected through the OHL Alumni network, where flashing his alumni card at games often sparks conversations and memories.
Beyond the Rink
Away from hockey, Huras is a proud father of three and an active member of his community.
He helped found the Chesley Lake Cottagers Association and remains involved in local projects each summer. A lifelong music lover, he plays banjo and guitar and is currently learning bass. And thanks to two seasons playing in Salt Lake City in the late ’70s, he developed a passion for skiing – spending winters in Ogden, Utah, his wife’s hometown.
His Message to Today’s Players
“Work your butt off, but don’t forget to enjoy the ride. Take every opportunity to improve yourself as a player and as a person. Junior hockey goes by in the blink of an eye. Don’t waste your time doing things that won’t advance you towards your goals.”
About Hockey Coach Vision:
Hockey Coach Vision is a global leader in digital coaching tools, working with federations and development programs in countries including Canada, Switzerland, Germany, Slovakia, and Austria. Their HCV Coach app supports coaches and players worldwide with innovative, accessible teaching resources.
About Chesley Lake Cottage Association:
The Chesley Lake Cottage Association (CLCA) represents the 350 families who live and cottage around Chesley Lake, a 500‑acre kettle lake in the Grey‑Bruce region. Since 1987, the CLCA has focused on protecting lake health through water‑quality monitoring, aeration system maintenance, fish‑stocking partnerships, and community education.
Learn More & Connect:
- Hockey Coach Vision: hockeycoachvision.com
- Chesley Lake Cottage Association: chesleylakecottageassociation.com
Loading ...