Murray Williamson: A Pioneer in American Hockey
When the 2026 World Junior Hockey Championship comes to the Twin Cities in December, not many will know that more than 50 years ago, a diminutive former Gophers hockey player was a catalyst in the establishment of the tournament that now garners worldwide media attention. Murray Williamson, a former Gophers hockey player and Olympic coach, passed away this week at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the sport of hockey in the United States.
A Legendary Career
Murray Williamson’s career in hockey spanned over five decades, from his time as a player for the Gophers in 1956 to his coaching stint with the 1972 U.S. Olympic team, which won a silver medal in Sapporo, Japan. According to Gophers men’s hockey coach Bob Motzko, “Murray was truly a legend. As a player, I believe he was an All-American, but what he did after, he gave back so much to USA Hockey and the growth and development of our sport.” Williamson’s contributions to the sport have been recognized by many, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of hockey players and coaches.
A Visionary for Junior Hockey
After his turn as the Olympic coach, Williamson wanted more opportunities for American players to continue in the game after high school. Despite some initial push-back from the NCAA and others, he worked to grow junior hockey leagues and what eventually became the World Juniors. His vision and perseverance have led to the creation of a platform that showcases the talents of young hockey players from around the world. As Motzko noted, “He was a true icon, and we lost one of the all-time greats that found his way to our campus and never left.”
A Businessman and Family Man
In addition to his achievements in hockey, Williamson was also a successful businessman. He got into the lodging business and at one point owned seven hotels in Minnesota and Florida. His family’s foray into hotels came after Williamson and a few friends started a summer hockey camp in Bemidji, and parents from the Twin Cities bringing their children to the camp complained about a dearth of available lodging. Williamson is survived by his three children, seven grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren, including his granddaughter Taylor, who was the 2015 Minnesota Ms. Hockey winner at Edina and played for the Gophers.
Plans for a celebration of life and funeral are pending. For more information about Murray Williamson’s life and legacy, visit Here
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