Whether he was on the ice or behind the bench, Bobby Kromm was the
picture of excellent during a career that spanned 30 years and four
leagues.
His 17-year playing career in the Western International Hockey League
started in 1948 and included stops in Kimberley, Trail and Nelson.
By the time he had hung up his skates, Kromm was the WIHL's all-time
leader in points (783) and assists (524), and was second all-time in
games played (475)
Bobby Kromm's success as a coach was evident even before his playing
days were over. He was the playing coach of the Trail Smoke Eaters from
1959 to 1963, leading to the team to the World Hockey Championship in
1961. He also coached the Smokies to the 1962 Allan Cup championship in
1962, and earned Trail the right to represent Canada at the 1963 World
Championships.
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From the Western International Hockey League, Kromm moved to the Central
Hockey League, where he coached the Dallas Black Hawks from 1967 to
1975, leading the Black Hawks to the league championship series six
times, winning in three times. He was named the CHL's coach of the year
in 1972.
A move up to the World Hockey Association followed in 1975, as Kromm
coached the Winnipeg Jets from 1975-1977, leading the team to the Avco
Cup WHA championship during his first season. He was also named the
league's coach of the year that season.
Kromm reached the National Hockey League in 1977, when he was named the
head coach of the Detroit Red Wings. He was the bench boss of the Red
Wings until 1980, coaching a total of 231 games in the NHL and earning
coach of the year honours in 1978.
With a world hockey championship, CHL and WHA titles and three Coach of
the Year awards to his credit, Bobby Kromm was marked for success at
every level.
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