The Big Rapids school district announced this week that Bryan Marek will take over as head coach of the varsity hockey program, succeeding Tim Blashill, who stepped down after a successful tenure.
A Homecoming for a Cardinal Legend
Marek’s connection to the program runs deep; he suited up for the Cardinals from 1990 through 1994, helping the team reach the state semifinals on three separate occasions.
During his junior years he honed his skills in the Big Rapids Area Junior Hockey Association, a pathway that introduced him to the sport at the age of four.
After his playing days he spent time in the North American League with the Michigan Nationals in Dearborn Heights before returning to the community as a cemetery supervisor for Big Rapids Township and a former professional firefighter.
For several years he has also been volunteering as a coach for a bantam U14 AA team, accumulating a wealth of experience mentoring youngsters who share his passion for the game.
In a recent interview Marek said he is eager to give back to the school that shaped him, noting that coaching the very squad he once skated for feels like a full‑circle moment.