Jay Woodcroft Parents: Meet Jem and Frank Woodcroft

Canadian professional ice hockey coach Jay Woodcroft’s illustrious career in ice hockey coaching has been shaped by a profound family connection to the sport.

At the heart of Jay Woodcroft’s hockey journey are his parents, Jem and Frank Woodcroft. Jay’s father, Frank Woodcroft, was an accomplished junior goalie.

Frank’s passion for hockey ignited a lifelong love for the sport in his son. The Woodcroft hockey legacy extends beyond Jay and his father.

His father’s brothers, Paul and Bud, found a unique way to combine their love for hockey with their spiritual calling. They joined the ranks of the Flying Fathers, a hockey team made up of Catholic priests.

One of their mentors was the late Father Les Costello, a former Stanley Cup champion who became a priest in 1957. These connections enriched the family’s hockey experiences and solidified their bond with the game.

Craig Woodcroft, Jay’s brother, carved out a notable career in hockey. A seventh-round draft pick of the Chicago Blackhawks in 1988, Craig’s journey took him to Colgate University, the Canadian national team, and a remarkable 13 seasons of professional play in North America, Finland, Germany, Italy, and Sweden.

Todd Woodcroft, another of Jay’s brothers, pursued a path in hockey that led to numerous accomplishments. He played hockey at McGill University and transitioned into scouting and coaching roles in the NHL.