Missing the Chicago Express

In 2012, I was very excited when I signed on to cover the expansion Chicago Express hockey team of the ECHL.  The organization embraced JohngysBeat.com and what we brought to the table.  Unfortunately, the Express folded after that season.  Despite the association with the team being short-lived, it was fun while it lasted. 
The coach of the Express was Steve Martinson, who had a 19 year career as a player.  Martinson spent time with the Detroit Red Wings, the Montreal Canadiens and the Minnesota North Stars, although most of his career was in the minors.  He was definitely a hockey lifer.
He went into coaching immediately after playing and has spent the last 19 seasons as the head coach for various teams, including his one season with the Express.  Currently he coaches the Allen Americans in the CHL.  Based out of Allen, TX, the Americans are in the running for the top spot in the CHL.
I really enjoyed watching the Express practice.  I learned a great deal about hockey just from those few times.  Martinson is the kind of guy I would like to interview at length sometime.  I think he is a pleasant guy who has a ton of hockey knowledge and probably many great hockey stories.  I would have had that chance if the Express had survived.
I can mourn the loss of the Express or I can celebrate the addition of the Rockford IceHogs. While it wasn't exactly a trade, it somehow has worked out that way.  I will still continue to follow Martinson (and hopefully I will interview him again) and I have become a much bigger fan of the IceHogs.
Thanks for the memories Express.  Go IceHogs!!

Steve Martinson and me in Palatine, IL-Winter 2011.

On the Beat with Steve Martinson

Obviously, the right coach is important in building a team, especially a team in its first year of existence.  The Chicago Express have a great coach in Steve Martinson.
Martinson played 15 years of pro hockey, seeing time in the NHL with the Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens and Minnesota North Stars.  He is now in his 15th season of coaching.  In the previous 14 years, Martinson has lead his team to the playoffs 13 times, while winning 6 championships.  Those are impressive numbers.
Martinson seems to be a perfect fit for the Express.  With about two weeks left in the season, the Express is in the playoff picture.  This has been a successful season for the expansion Express and Martinson deserves a great deal of credit.
We had the privilege of talking to Martinson after a recent Express practice.  We discussed coaching a new franchise, his playing career, his future and more.  Martinson gave some interesting answers.
We really appreciate Coach Martinson giving us a bit of his time.  We also thank Bob Mills, Director of Media Relations for facilitating the interview.
After you watch the interview below, be sure to go to ChicagoExpressHockey.com.  You can also check out the Express Facebook page and follow the Express on twitter.