Poul Popiel
Poul Peter Popiel is a Danish-American former professional ice hockey defenceman who played in the National Hockey League and World Hockey Association, and also served as a head coach in the minor leagues. Following a brief 12 games in the International Hockey [League (1945–2001)|International Hockey League] with the Muskegon Mohawks, he retired and became the head coach. Popiel and Garry [Peters (ice hockey)|Garry Peters] were co-winners of the inaugural Ken McKenzie Trophy as Central [Professional Hockey League] rookies of the year in 1963-64. His younger brother Jan Popiel is also a former professional hockey player.
Popiel was the first Danish-born player in the National Hockey League. Popiel's family moved to Canada in 1951 when he was a child, and subsequently moved to the United States and he acquired Citizenship of [the United States|American citizenship] before making his NHL debut.
Awards
- Ken McKenzie Trophy
- Played in WHA All-Star Game