Rick Bowness Discusses Family, Classic Rock, and Communication Power

Rick Bowness, the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, recently opened up about his personal life and passions in a recent interview. Bowness, who took over coaching duties on January 12, 2023, is focused on revitalizing the Blue Jackets’ season as they aim for a playoff spot. His journey into hockey and his deep family ties play a significant role in his coaching philosophy.

Personal Connections and Family Support

Bowness celebrated his 71st birthday recently and credits his wife, Judy, as the cornerstone of his life. The couple, high-school sweethearts, have been together for 48 years. Throughout Bowness’s career, Judy has been a steadfast supporter, helping to maintain family unity despite the inevitabilities of hockey life, including trades and coaching changes.

• Bowness noted, “We’re a hockey family. It’s not just what we do, it’s who we are.”
• Judy plays a crucial role in connecting with the wives and girlfriends of players, fostering a sense of community.

Coaching Philosophy and Communication

Bowness emphasizes the importance of communication in coaching. He believes that understanding each player’s personality is key to effective interaction. He stated that his approach to coaching aligns with how he wished to be coached during his playing days.

Role of Family in Hockey Life

Both Bowness’s sons have ties to the NHL, with Ryan having been drafted by the Blue Jackets and now serving as assistant general manager for the New York Islanders. Rick Jr. pursued a career in sports management, and their daughter, Kristen, is the youth program director for a new franchise.

Passions Beyond Hockey

Bowness is not only dedicated to his team but also has a passion for classic rock music, particularly Led Zeppelin. He fondly recalls his teenage years in the 1960s and cites songs like “Kashmir” as personal favorites.

A Journey of Resilience

Recently, Bowness faced health challenges that affected both his and Judy’s well-being. A particularly distressing incident occurred on October 22, 2023, when Judy experienced a seizure, prompting a new outlook on life for Bowness. This event, along with his battle with long-term COVID, led to a renewed appreciation for life and family.

Future Aspirations

As the Blue Jackets move forward in the season, Bowness looks ahead to continuing his role with the team. Both he and general manager Don Waddell have agreed to revisit his coaching position after the season ends in late spring or early summer.

Conclusion

Bowness has proven to be a resilient coach with a passion for the game and a profound appreciation for his family and community. He looks forward to enhancing the Blue Jackets’ performance while maintaining strong family connections and personal passions, including his love for music.