Mark Johnson: A Unique Perspective

On a chilly Tuesday afternoon in late January, Mark Johnson, the revered head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers women’s hockey team, shared a thought-provoking tale involving a deer he encountered while driving. His attempt to empathize with the animal illuminated his coaching philosophy: understanding player perspectives is vital.

“We’ve got these hockey players and we’re trying to figure them out,” Johnson said, emphasizing his commitment to fostering a supportive environment for his team.

A Winning Culture

Johnson, 67, has built a coaching career that stands unmatched in NCAA Division I women’s hockey, amassing over 600 wins. With seven national championships to their name, none has recorded more victories than the Badgers. As they prepare for the NCAA Tournament, they maintain a powerful record: only one loss in regulation and recent champions of the WCHA conference.

The Badgers’ Elite Roster

This year’s team boasts unparalleled depth and talent. Johnson is overseeing a group with four players nominated for the prestigious 2025 Patty Kazmaier Award, epitomizing the stature of the program. The Badgers head into the postseason as the top-ranked team, eager to live up to expectations.

The Path to Dominance

Mark Johnson is the son of the late “Badger Bob” Johnson, who played a crucial role in establishing the Wisconsin men’s hockey program. Following a remarkable playing career that included an Olympic gold medal in 1980 and 11 seasons in the NHL, Johnson shifted towards coaching, taking the helm of the Badgers women’s program in 2002.

Initially considered a risky move, Johnson’s commitment to developing the women’s game materialized quickly as he focused on creating a stable team culture. “It was this leap of faith,” Johnson remarked, detailing his inaugural aspirations for the team.

Coaching Philosophy and Style

Johnson fosters a non-pressured environment, a strategy that significantly benefits his athletes. “He’s not a yeller, he’s not a screamer,” remarked assistant coach Jackie Crum, underscoring his calm approach, which resonates well with female players. The coaching staff’s collective tenure together for over 15 years has strengthened the program’s consistency and identity.

Fan Engagement and Community Support

The Badgers women’s hockey experience is enhanced by a passionate fan base that consistently fills LaBahn Arena. With a remarkable average attendance of 3,500 fans per game this season, their support significantly contributes to the players’ motivation and dedication.

Describing the fan experience, captain Casey O’Brien stated, “It gives you something more to play for. You want to do well for them because they invest so much in us.”

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Badgers have access to premier facilities, having relocated from a community rink to the state-of-the-art LaBahn Arena, where they also utilize amenities like training facilities and a team lounge. These resources align with the aims of a Big Ten athletics program, which prides itself on self-sustainability.

Aiming for the Championship

The current roster, laden with talent and experience, includes standout players like O’Brien, Edwards, and Harvey—their eyes set on reclaiming the national championship after a near miss last season. “We want to win it all,” Harvey emphasized, summarizing the collective determination towards their goal.