Cleary Blossomed While Staying Close to Roots
The following article featuring former Harvard standout, coach and athletics director Bill Cleary appeared November 28 on the USA Hockey Magazine Web site.
By Jon Hussey
Bill Cleary has held just about every possible title in the hockey world, and he has excelled in each. Born in Cambridge, Mass., Cleary never strayed from his roots, becoming a star for Harvard in the 1950s. In the last 50 years, Cleary has remained dedicated to Harvard, as a player, a coach for 19 seasons and as director of athletics for 11 years.
However, Cleary reached the height of his career away from home, as a member of the 1960 U.S. Olympic Team in Squaw Valley. Cleary’s 12 points (six goals, six assists) led the U.S. team and helped secure its first ever gold medal in hockey.
Cleary, who won a silver in Cortina, Italy in 1956, scored the first goal in a 3-2 upset over the Russians en route to the gold-medal. Cleary’s brother Bob, who Cleary insisted be on the team, assisted on that key goal.
Complete article can be accessed via the USA Hockey Magazine Web site by clicking here.
