TTM Stats
- Sent: 5/14/2022 | Received: 5/31/2022 | 17 Days
- ’89 Topps, ’90 Pro Set, ’90 Score, ’91 Bowman, ’91 Pro Set
- Address: Utica Comets Team Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Kevin Dineen’s hockey career is a tale of grit, leadership, and determination. From his days as a dynamic NHL forward to his success as a coach and mentor, Dineen’s impact on the game extends far beyond the rink. Known for his versatility and competitive spirit, Dineen is remembered as both a skilled player and an inspirational leader.
Kevin William Dineen was born on October 28, 1963, in Quebec City, Quebec, into a hockey family. His father, Bill Dineen, was a professional hockey player and coach, so Kevin grew up immersed in the game. The Dineen household was a hotbed for hockey talent, with Kevin and his brothers following in their father’s footsteps.
Dineen played junior hockey with the St. Michael’s Buzzers and later with the University of Denver Pioneers in the NCAA. At Denver, he developed his reputation as a hardworking, skilled forward who could both score goals and play physical hockey. His collegiate success caught the attention of NHL scouts.
The Hartford Whalers selected Dineen in the third round (56th overall) of the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut during the 1984-85 season, immediately becoming a fan favorite for his relentless play and scoring ability.
Dineen played the bulk of his career with the Whalers, serving as team captain and one of their most consistent contributors. His best offensive season came in 1988-89, when he scored 45 goals and added 44 assists for a career-high 89 points. Known for his ability to score in clutch situations, he helped lead the Whalers to several playoff appearances during his tenure.
Dineen’s career also included stints with the Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes, Ottawa Senators, and Columbus Blue Jackets. Across 19 NHL seasons, he played in 1,188 games, recording 760 points (355 goals and 405 assists). In addition to his offensive prowess, Dineen was celebrated for his toughness and versatility. Whether leading the power play, killing penalties, or engaging in physical battles along the boards, he was the quintessential two-way forward.
Dineen also represented Canada on the international stage, including at the 1984 Winter Olympics and the 1987 Canada Cup. His leadership and determination made him a valuable asset in these high-pressure tournaments, contributing to Canada’s hockey legacy.
After retiring as a player in 2003, Dineen quickly transitioned to coaching. He began his coaching career with the Portland Pirates of the AHL, where he enjoyed immediate success, earning the AHL Coach of the Year award in 2006. In 2011, Dineen was named head coach of the NHL’s Florida Panthers. In his first season, he led the team to its first playoff appearance in over a decade, earning respect for his ability to develop young talent and instill a winning culture.
Dineen’s coaching career also included a notable stint as head coach of the Canadian Women’s National Team. Under his guidance, the team won the gold medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, cementing his reputation as a leader who could succeed at all levels of the game. He later served as an assistant coach for the Chicago Blackhawks and head coach of the AHL’s San Diego Gulls, continuing to develop players and contribute to the sport he loves.
Off the ice, Dineen is known for his commitment to family and community. He and his wife, Annie, have raised four children, and he remains deeply involved in youth hockey and charity work.
Dineen’s resilience has also been evident in his personal life. In 1993, he was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory condition. Despite this challenge, Dineen continued to excel as a player and later as a coach, becoming an advocate for others living with the disease.
Kevin Dineen’s hockey career is a testament to the power of perseverance and leadership. As a player, he was a model of consistency and toughness, earning the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike. As a coach, he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to inspire and develop talent, leaving a lasting impact on the game at every level.
Dineen’s journey from the rinks of Quebec to the international stage is a story of passion, dedication, and an unwavering love for hockey. His legacy will endure as one of the game’s great leaders, both on and off the ice.
The Score on Kevin Dineen – 6.5
Kevin has a nice stacked signature. I think because it’s a bit thin it doesn’t cut through the images, but that’s only when he signs over himself. But my favorite of these is the 1991 Bowman card because he had a great place to sign.
Thanks Mr. Dineen! I’m going to give this return a 6.5 overall.
This is my second successful return from him. To see the first successful return, check out my post from December 2023.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Hockey Reference.