Dennis Bolton ’74
Dennis Bolton ’74 was a cornerstone of Laker hockey’s early success and helped establish the championship tradition that has become synonymous with Lake Superior State hockey. A two-time team captain, Bolton led the Lakers during the 1972-73 and 1973-74 seasons, including the program’s historic run to the 1974 NAIA National Championship.
Joining the Lakers in 1970 following a successful junior hockey career with the Ontario Hockey League’s Kitchener Rangers, Bolton quickly became one of the most outstanding players in the early history of LSSU hockey. A two-time national champion, he played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ championship success. In the 1972 NAIA National Championship game, Bolton scored the opening goal, assisted on Rod Hooktwith’s goal, and added a second goal of his own to help secure the title. During the Lakers’ 1974 championship run, he recorded three goals and four assists and was named the Most Valuable Player of the NAIA National Tournament.
For his exceptional performance and leadership, Bolton earned NAIA All-American honors and was selected for the 1974 edition of Outstanding College Athletes of America. He was also a member of the Lakers’ 1974 CCHA Championship team. His accomplishments as a player, captain, and leader helped set the standard of excellence for future generations of Laker hockey players.
Following his graduation from Lake Superior State, Bolton remained connected to the game of hockey. He was offered the opportunity to become an assistant coach at Western Michigan while pursuing a master’s degree but chose instead to continue his playing career in the IHL. He later returned to coaching, assisting Soo Greyhounds head coach and LSSU graduate Paul Theriault, and also coached Minor hockey and teams in the NOJHL.
Bolton credits many members of the LSSU community for shaping his experience as a student-athlete and helping guide his journey. “I have tremendous appreciation for the people who helped shape my journey at LSSU, especially Coaches Ron Mason and Rick Comley, Athletic Director Bud Cooper, and President Kenneth Shouldice,” Bolton said. “They were respected leaders and strong mentors who had a lasting impact on me as a young athlete and student. I am also grateful for my teammates and our fans. Every player was essential, and every player contributed to our success. We were a team with shared passion and purpose. Because of our hard work, commitment, and belief in one another, we became the first Laker hockey team to win an NAIA Championship in 1972 and then again in 1974, opening the door for the continued success of Laker hockey.”
Bolton added, “Our team celebrated the championships, but we also celebrated the journey we took together. The friendships, memories, and experiences we shared have lasted a lifetime. Being part of the early days of Laker hockey was a privilege, and I am honored to have played a role in building a foundation for the program’s future.”
Bolton and his wife, Sandy, continue to have a lasting connection to the Laker community. Their daughter Rebecca was born while Bolton was attending LSSU and spent two years as one of the youngest members of the Laker family before later earning her Bachelor of Science degree from LSSU. Their daughter Rachel graduated from Georgian College and has built a career as a Finance/Business Manager in the automotive industry. Bolton and Sandy are also proud grandparents of Rebecca’s son, Owen Shier.