Aquinas College

Coach VanVliet has been involved with the West Michigan Hockey Community for over 40 years as a player, official, and head coach. Serving as Head Coach of the Aquinas College Men’s Hockey Program since it’s inception in 2012 through 2015, Coach VanVliet attained an overall coaching record of 51 – 27 – 3 and was named Michigan Collegiate Hockey Conference - West Division “Coach of the Year” in 2014.

Prior to his service to Aquinas, VanVliet served as an Assistant Coach at Davenport University. In just four seasons he helped guide the Panthers’ ACHA D3 Program from it’s inception to two straight appearances in the National Finals (2010 and 2011). Prior to Davenport University, VanVliet served as head coach of Grand Rapids South Christian, Grand Rapids Union, and Grand Rapids Christian High Schools as well as coaching in the Kentwood Hockey and Skating Association (KHSA). A goaltender by trade, VanVliet played for Grand Rapids Christian where he garnered All League honors in both the 1974-1974 and 1975-1976 seasons. After high school he attended Calvin College where he majored in Physical Education and served as the Knights starting goaltender for three straight seasons from 1977 – 1980. VanVliet then capped his competitive playing career by playing Senior “A” hockey in East Lansing, MI in 1980 – 81. Coach Mark and his supportive wife Faith currently live in Grand Rapids and have four children: Jillian (Kadau), Jenna (Hulst), Marygrace, and Teddy (Paige).