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Fired-Up Pioneer Coach David Carle Signs Contract Extension

In a recent turn of events, David Carle, the red-hot name on the NHL coaching carousel, has decided to ditch the hockey pros and stay put at the University of Denver. The school made the announcement on Monday, albeit sans the contract details, such as its duration.

"I owe a big thank you to Chancellor Jeremy Haefner, John Miller, the entire Board of Trustees, and my man Josh Berlo for their unwavering backing of Denver hockey. We strive to remain the best college hockey program in the nation," Carle expressed in a statement. "I'm psyched to continue my journey with our student-athletes, coaches, staff, alums, and fans in the forthcoming seasons. Denver isn't just a place for me and my fam – it's home!" he added.

Carle, the mastermind behind two national championships (2022, 2024), has led the Pioneers to four Frozen Four appearances during his seven-year tenure as head coach. Despite a heart-wrenching loss to Western Michigan in the 2025 semifinals, Carle's team managed to return to the Frozen Four, a testament to his leading prowess.

Not only has Carle delivered four straight 30-win seasons for the Pios, but he's also orchestrated the United States' back-to-back gold medals at the IIHF World Junior Championships (first in the nation's history). Sadly, Carle won't be seeking a three-peat with Team USA next season.

With multiple NHL teams showing interest over the past couple of years, Carle has made it clear that he's in no rush to leave Denver. He seems content with the Pioneers' standing in the hockey world.

By the time next season rolls around, Carle will have moved into third place in the Pios program history with 179 wins (180 with the next season's games). With a 12-3 record in NCAA Tournament play, the second-best winning percentage among coaches with at least 10 contests, Carle's impact on the team is undeniable.

Berlo echoed the university's enthusiasm, stating, "We're positively thrilled to have Carle continue to lead Denver hockey's legendary legacy. His dedication and fervor are off the charts, and we can't wait to keep the ball rolling, aiming to build upon our record-setting 10 NCAA championships as the most accomplished college hockey program in history."

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Despite attracted attention from various NHL teams, Coach David Carle has opted to extend his contract with the University of Denver's hockey program, citing his gratitude towards the university's support and considering Denver as home.
In his seven-year tenure as head coach, Carle led the Pioneers to four Frozen Four appearances, two national championships (2022, 2024), four straight 30-win seasons, and a 12-3 winning record in NCAA Tournament play, placing him second in terms of winning percentage.
Apart from Carle's achievements with the Pioneers, he also masterminded the United States' back-to-back gold medals at the IIHF World Junior Championships, a first for the nation.
John Miller, the university's athletic director, and Josh Berlo, the university's vice-chancellor, expressed their excitement about Carle's continued leadership, aiming to build upon the school's record-setting 10 NCAA championships as the most accomplished college hockey program in history.