Bill Howard stepping down as Badger goaltending coach

I just saw this story this morning and this is a big time lose to the Badgers. Bill Howard is known for developing young collegiate goaltenders into the Badgers system.

MADISON, Wis. — He's coached some college hockey's top goaltenders -- many of whom went on to long NHL careers -- and is the only person to have been a part of all six of Wisconsin's national titles. Now, after 36 years, Badgers hockey assistant and goaltending Coach Bill Howard is stepping down.

"I wish to thank all the wonderful support staff, the three head coaches that I worked for (the late Bob Johnson, Jeff Sauer and Mike Eaves), the past and present administration, all the media personnel, the players and specifically all of the great goalies that I had the opportunity to work with and coach over the past four decades," Howard said in a statement.

"Although this was a long thought out and difficult decision for me and my family to make, their support, thoughts, insight and understanding made this decision much easier to make. I am fortunate at this time to have many other opportunities as a goalie consultant and coach.

"I still have a great passion for teaching and coaching players and goalies at all age levels. I therefore am not retiring from coaching but simply moving in a different direction. It's been a lot of fun, a great run, and has been very rewarding."

Eaves had Howard as part of the staff for the program's most recent national title, with Brian Elliott in net.

“Bill Howard has been an invaluable part of the Wisconsin family and tradition for 36 years. One constant in life is change and Coach Howard feels that the time is right for this change in his life. We wish him nothing but the best health and success in the future," Eaves said.

Howard coached, among others, Curtis Joseph and Mike Richter -- two standout NHL performers