Doug Barkley

Norman Douglas Barkley (born January 6, 1937 in Lethbridge, Alberta) is a former professional ice hockey defenceman. After his playing career he was the head coach of the Detroit Red Wings for two separate occasions.

Playing career

Barkley's playing career ended from an on-ice accident that rendered him blind in his right eye. On January 30, 1966, Barkley, playing for the Detroit Red Wings, was battling with Chicago's Doug Mohns for a puck at the blueline. Mohns attempted to lift Barkley's stick, but missed, and struck the bent-over Barkley directly in his right eye. Barkley would never play again. In 253 NHL games Barkley recorded 24 goals and 80 assists for 104 career points.

Coaching career

Following his career ending injury, Barkley joined the Detroit front office, working in public relations and as a troubleshooter. He was appointed head coach of the Fort Worth Texans in 1969 (Detroit's farm team), and just a year later he was coaching the Red Wings. He coached less than one season before quitting due to the teams slow start. He returned to coach the Wings again in 1975, but lasted just 26 games before being fired and replaced by Alex Delvecchio, a former teammate. He now lives in Calgary, Alberta.

External links

• Doug Barkley's biography at Legends of Hockey

Preceded by Ned Harkness	Head coach of the Detroit Red Wings 1970–1972	Succeeded by Johnny Wilson
Preceded by Alex Delvecchio	Head coach of the Detroit Red Wings 1975–1976	Succeeded by Billy Dea