Luke Opilka joined the Maryville hockey coaching staff in October of 2018 after he announced his retirement from professional hockey.
The Effingham, Illinois native was drafted 146 overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues. Opilka grew up defending the goal with the St. Louis AAA Blues until he graduated to junior hockey with the USNTDP which competed in the USHL. While wearing the red, white, and blue, Opilka won gold medals at the U-17 World Hockey Championships and the U-18 World Junior Championships. In 2013, Luke was drafted by the Kitchenor Rangers of the OHL and played two seasons with them.
Unfortunatley, due to several hip surgeries, Opilka was forced to retire from playing in 2018. After that difficult decision, Luke chose to obtain a bachelor’s degree at Maryville University. Since he could not play, he decided to bring his experience and knowledge of the game to the Maryville coaching staff.
Luke resides in the St. Louis area while coaching for the Saints and attending Maryville University as a student.
Coaching philosophy: “At the collegiate level, I feel like it is important to let goalies continue to do what has made them successful and what has got them to the collegiate level. I like to act as a ‘sounding board’ and help goalies develop and enhance their own style. I believe it is important for everyone to be as efficient as possible and make sure they are using the most effective methods for themselves.”
Favorite quote: “If you fail to prepare, then you are preparing to fail.”
Why is Maryville Special? “Maryville is special, because it gives the players the tools they need succeed in the hockey rink, and at school. The professors are understanding about the rigorous schedule of student-athletes and always have everyone’s best interest in mind.”
