Toronto Maple Leafs Release Statement on Craig Berube’s Retirement..
TORONTO (MARCH 27, 2025) – The Toronto Maple Leafs today announced that President of Hockey Operations and Head Coach Craig Berube has officially announced his retirement from the team, effective immediately. This marks the end of an influential chapter in Maple Leafs history, as Berube leaves behind a legacy shaped by his passionate leadership and his relentless drive for excellence in the sport of hockey.
Craig Berube joined the Maple Leafs as Head Coach in 2022, following a successful tenure as a head coach with the Philadelphia Flyers and the Stanley Cup-winning St. Louis Blues. His combination of tactical acumen and motivational expertise quickly made him a respected figure in the hockey community. Under his guidance, the Maple Leafs saw significant improvements in both their on-ice performance and their organizational culture, focusing on teamwork, resilience, and player development.
The announcement of Berube’s retirement comes as a surprise to many fans and analysts. Leading into the offseason, expectations were high following the Leafs’ dramatic playoff run, culminating in a competitive series that showcased the team’s evolution and their pursuit of the ultimate prize: the Stanley Cup. However, Berube cited personal reasons for his decision, emphasizing his desire to spend more time with family and away from the rigors of professional hockey.
In his statement regarding his retirement, Berube expressed gratitude toward the Maple Leafs organization, the players, and the dedicated fanbase. “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished during my time here. It has been a true honor to coach such talented athletes and to work for an organization that is as storied and passionate as the Toronto Maple Leafs. The support from the fans has been overwhelming, and I will cherish the memories we have created together.”
During Berube’s tenure, the Maple Leafs adopted a more structured and disciplined style of play, which proved essential in their quest for success. He emphasized a strong work ethic and accountability, leading to a significant increase in the team’s defensive capabilities while maintaining their offensive prowess. Under his leadership, the players flourished, with several athletes experiencing career-best seasons, garnering accolades, and even breaking franchise records.
General Manager Kyle Dubas, who worked closely with Berube to assemble a competitive roster, reflected on the impact Berube had on the organization. “Craig has been a transformative influence on our team. His knowledge of the game and his ability to connect with players is remarkable. He has left an indelible mark on this franchise, and while we respect his decision to step away, he will be deeply missed. The standard he set for our players and for ourselves has paved the way for the future of this team.”
In Berube’s first full season as the Maple Leafs’ head coach, the team completed the regular season with a franchise-record 112 points, marking a significant milestone that set high expectations for the following years. His emphasis on youth development, utilizing the organization’s strong pipeline, saw the emergence of young stars who not only contributed during the regular season but made crucial impacts in the playoffs.
In addition to his coaching success, Berube’s leadership extended beyond the rink. He cultivated a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect within the locker room, ensuring that every player felt valued and empowered. His natural ability to motivate the team created a cohesive environment where players were willing to go the extra mile for one another. This facet of his coaching had a lasting influence on the players, fostering camaraderie and friendships that extended beyond the rink.
As the organization begins the process of identifying Berube’s successor, the challenge ahead will be maintaining the momentum he established. The search is expected to be meticulously thorough, with a focus on finding a candidate who can seamlessly integrate with the existing framework developed under Berube’s guidance. The front office remains committed to building on the strong foundation Berube put in place and recognizes the significance of this decision as they look toward the future.
Berube’s retirement not only affects the coaching staff but also has broader implications for the players and the overall direction of the organization. The Maple Leafs are poised to remain competitive in the fiercely contested Atlantic Division and are determined to make significant strides toward their ultimate goal of winning the Stanley Cup. His successor will inherit a talented roster with high expectations, and the opportunity to continue fostering the development and success of this dynamic team.
In the wake of Berube’s announcement, the fans, players, and staff of the Toronto Maple Leafs are taking a moment to reflect on the impact he had during his time with the franchise. The Maple Leafs’ loyal fanbase, known for their passion and dedication, will remember Berube’s tenure fondly. His legacy will be measured not only in wins and losses but in the resilience and growth he inspired within his players.
While the Leafs now turn the page to a new era, the memories of Craig Berube’s contributions will resonate for years to come. As he embarks on the next chapter of his life, fans and players alike send their best wishes for continued happiness and fulfillment. The Maple Leafs organization will forever carry the torch of his values, leadership, and the unforgettable moments that defined his time with the team.
In closing, as sports often teach us, every end is a new beginning. The Toronto Maple Leafs will honor Craig Berube’s contributions while setting their sights on the future. The organization thanks him for his dedication, and as the search begins for a new head coach, a hopeful excitement fills the air within the hockey community. Changes in personnel are inevitable, but the principles that Berube instilled will guide the Maple Leafs as they continue their pursuit of greatness.
### A Legacy Honored
Craig Berube’s name will always be associated with a transformative period in Toronto Maple Leafs history. As fans and analysts reflect on his accomplishments, it is essential to recognize how he shaped the team’s identity in a competitive league. The Toronto Maple Leafs management, coaching staff, and players will carry forward the lessons Berube imparted, seeking to honor him through their continued efforts on the ice.
While the franchise may be losing a leader in Berube, they are gaining a deeper understanding of what it means to compete at the highest level. As the city of Toronto watches the next steps unfold, the hope remains that Berube’s influence will echo through the halls of Scotiabank Arena for years to come, always reminding the team of their pursuit of success and the championship that remains just within reach.
As the Maple Leafs move forward, they will leverage the legacy that Craig Berube leaves behind – one of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence in the game of hockey. His retirement is not merely an end; it’s a stepping stone toward a future defined by the values he instilled and the success he has inspired.
