Blake Coleman Bio
Blake Coleman is an American professional ice hockey player who serves as a forward and alternate captain for the Calgary Flames in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on November 28, 1991, in Plano, Texas, he was drafted 75th overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2011 NHL Draft. Coleman had a successful career with the Devils, where he made significant contributions before moving to the Tampa Bay Lightning, winning two consecutive Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. Known for his grit, speed, and ability to perform in clutch situations, Coleman continues to make a significant impact in the league.
Early Life and Background
Blake Coleman was born into an athletic family in Plano, Texas. His father, Rusty Coleman, played football at the University of Oklahoma, and his sister, Brooke, played volleyball at Ohio University. Growing up, Coleman was inspired by his grandmother, who took him to Dallas Stars games, sparking his interest in ice hockey. He began skating at the age of five at a rink in Irving, Texas, before a rink opened in Plano. Coleman often played with older children and practiced early in the morning due to limited ice time.
Path to Hockey
Coleman played in the 2004 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament with the Dallas Alliance minor ice hockey team. He was later recruited to attend a Detroit-based Catholic school to play for the Belle Tire 16U AAA team in the Tier 1 Elite Hockey League. During his time there, he learned to play a tougher and more defensive game. After returning to Texas, he played two seasons with the Dallas Stars Elite Hockey Club, which led to his recruitment to the North American Hockey League and then the United States Hockey League (USHL). Coleman had a breakout season in the USHL, finishing with 34 goals and 58 assists, earning him the USHL’s Player and Forward of the Year awards. He was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 2011 while still committed to Miami University, where he played collegiate hockey.
Blake Coleman Career
Early Career (2015-2018)
Coleman began his professional career with the New Jersey Devils after signing a two-year entry-level contract in 2015. He played for the Albany Devils in the American Hockey League (AHL) before making his NHL debut on November 12, 2016. In his first full NHL season, he scored 13 goals and 12 assists, establishing himself as a reliable player. Coleman continued to improve, finishing the 2018 season with 13 goals and 12 assists over 79 games.
Breakthrough (2019-2021)
Coleman’s breakthrough came during the 2019-20 season when he recorded a career-high 21 goals and 10 assists before being traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning. With the Lightning, he played a crucial role in their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021. Coleman became the first Texas-born player to win the Stanley Cup, showcasing his skills and tenacity on the ice.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Blake Coleman has been recognized for his contributions to his teams, particularly during the playoffs. His ability to perform under pressure and his defensive skills have made him a valuable asset to the teams he has played for.
Blake Coleman Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Blake Coleman has received various nominations for his performance on the ice, highlighting his contributions to the teams he has played for.
Blake Coleman Awards Won
Blake Coleman has won multiple awards during his career, including recognition for his performance in the USHL and significant contributions to his teams in the NHL.
Blake Coleman Family
Blake Coleman is married to Jordan Daigle, a former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader and college football sideline reporter. The couple has two daughters together.
Personal Life
In 2018, Coleman launched the Pickles Pals program, which supports the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Newark Ironbound. The initiative aims to develop academic programs and provide resources for children to succeed in school. The program’s name is derived from a nickname Coleman received after a humorous incident involving pickle juice in the penalty box.
