Although neither the team's most creative player, nor its leading scorer, Jack Parker's style of play was characterized by determination, hustle and a tireless work ethic that has come to epitomize Boston University hockey for nearly 30 years.
On the ice, from his position at center, and behind the bench as the team's head coach, Parker's brand of emotional hockey proved to be as successful and effective as any in the college game.
During the three years from 1965-68, Parker helped lead the Terriers to three Beanpot titles, the ECAC and National Championship game, and an overall record of 72-22-4.
In his junior year, 1966-67, the Terriers compiled a 25-5-1 mark, and came within a single game of capturing the ECAC and National Championships, before bowing to Cornell on each occasion.
Returning to the ice for his senior year in 1967-68, Parker captained the club to a 20-9-3. He finished the year with 14 goals and 11 assists for 25 points, and received the Bennett McInnis Award presented annually to the individual that "typifies the spirit of a Boston University hockey player."
Although he finished his playing career with 91 career points on 42 goals and 49 assists, his involvement with Terrier hockey had only completed the introductory stage.
After spending the 1968-69 season at Medford High School, Parker returned to Commonwealth Ave the following year to serve as an assistant coach under legendary Terrier mentor Jack Kelley. In 1972, he was elevated to head coach of the "B"-Team, a position he held until Dec. 21, 1973, when he was named Boston University's 10th varsity head coach.
In his first 20 years, he compiled an overall record of 462-235-34, while capturing nine Beanpots, three Hockey East Championships, four ECAC Titles and one NCAA Championship.
During the 1993-94 campaign, Parker coached the team to the NCAA Tournament for the 11th time, and secured the program's 1,000th career win.
