Alexandria, MN (Jul. 19, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are excited to announce Mark Bassen to its 2024-25 coaching staff and program.
“Mark brings great experience to our coaching team and ultimately desires to train godly men in hockey and life, which is our heartbeat at the academy,” Interim Director Dallas Steward said.
Born into a hockey family in Calgary, Canada, Mark followed in the footsteps of his father Hank, and brother Bob who both played in the NHL. Beginning his hockey journey, he played 2 years junior in the WHL signing his first Pro contract with the Philadelphia Flyers. He then embarked on a 12-year professional career within the AHL, IHL, Canadian National Team, and Germany’s DEL. After retiring he went to Bible school at Lincoln Christian College in Illinois. He then founded and served as pastor of Crosswalk Chapel in Pekin, Illinois for 20 fulfilling years. Within the last 5 years Mark’s family moved to Germany and worked professionally inside hockey around Scheveningen of the DEL. While there, he received international experience coaching levels of junior and U17 hockey teams. Over the last 30 years Mark has coached hockey at every level from Mite to Junior specializing in skating and edge work. Mark’s father had said in hockey, “skating is the most important part”. While his mother has said in life “Jesus is the most important part”. Mark agrees and shares, “They both were so right, after all these years it’s clear hockey and Jesus can really go together. I’m so grateful for the new opportunity in Alexandria and can’t wait to serve at NorthStar.” Mark’s amazing family include his wife, Laura and their 5 children Boaz, Alex, Bailey, Charlie, and Emma with their Golden retriever Hank and will be relocating to Alexandria, MN this summer.