Butters Steps Down From UW's Bench

MADISON -- Bill Butters, in his third year as an assistant coach with the Wisconsin men's hockey program, is leaving his position with the Badgers effective immediately, head coach Mike Eaves announced Wednesday.

Eaves is in the process of searching for a new coach to add to his staff to replace Butters.

"I can't thank Bill enough for the time he spent with our program," Eaves said. "He has decided that it is in his best interest to return home to Minnesota to be with his family and to pursue other passions in his life. Bill is a good friend and a great hockey man. He has had a long and successful career in the game and, though I'm sad to see him go, I'm happy he will be able to move onto this next chapter in his life."

Butters both played and coached at the University of Minnesota. He also played five seasons in the WHA and two seasons with the NHL's Minnesota North Stars.

"I believe it's time for me to move on from coaching," Butters said. "I have appreciated Coach Eaves' support and friendship as I have come to this conclusion. Mike and I believe it will be in the best interests of both myself and the program if I take this step and return to my family and continue to develop the other pursuits on my horizon. It has been a fantastic opportunity to coach our players and work with the staff at Wisconsin."

The Badgers are off this coming weekend before heading to Minnesota for a two-game series on Nov. 16-17.

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