Frank J. Selke
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Francis J. (Frank) Selke (May 7, 1893-July 3, 1985) was a noted Canadian hockey manager in the NHL.
He began his career in 1907 as manager of the Iroquois Bantams even though he was just 14 years old. By the time he was 27, he had already coached the University of Toronto hockey team to the first Memorial Cup title.
Later, after Conn Smythe purchased the Toronto Maple Leafs, Selke became his top assistant. He would serve for twenty years in this position. Additionally, he coached the Toronto Marlboro to another Memorial Cup title and he helped raise funds for the construction of Maple Leaf Gardens.
After a fallout with Smythe, Selke joined the Montreal Canadiens as general manager. He had great success with the Canadiens. His clubs, anchored by Maurice Richard and Jacques Plante won the Stanley Cup in 1953. In 1956, they won the first of five consecutive Cups, a record that has never been beaten.
Selke retired after the 1964 season. Four years earlier, he was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame. In 1978, the NHL inaugurated the Frank Selke Trophy that is awarded annually to the outstanding defensive forward in the league.
Selke's son, Frank, Jr., was also a noted executive and media personality. He is most remembered as president of the California Golden Seals.