When Tony Granato returned home in 2016 to reinvigorate the Wisconsin Men’s Hockey program, most considered the move to be ushering in a bold new era for the Cardinal and White. A heralded, well-liked Badger alum with an impressive track record of coaching success, the fit seemed almost preordained and many believed that it was a home run hire.
Fast forward seven years to March 6, 2023, and Granato was being unceremoniously fired from something he’d called his dream job. Given how bright, loyal, and charming he is, Granato’s downfall was as sad as it was surprising.