Syracuse Club Sports

A pioneer of Syracuse University Men’s Hockey during its formative years, David Backhurst was both a standout winger and a driving force behind the program’s early development. Playing from 1966–1968, he contributed as an impact player on the ice while also serving as team President and Captain. In an era with minimal structure and support, Backhurst took on a wide range of responsibilities—handling scheduling, recruitment, and league coordination—helping guide the team through its early days in the Finger Lakes Collegiate Hockey League.

Off the ice, Backhurst built an extraordinary career as an educator and coach, highlighted by decades of success in high school athletics, including multiple state championships and Hall of Fame recognition in Michigan. His lifelong commitment to leadership, mentorship, and sport reflects the same dedication he brought to Syracuse hockey. His induction honors not only his on-ice contributions, but his role in laying the foundation for the program’s future.