The St. Louis Blues have named Barret Jackman as their new Director of Alumni.
Announced today, this appointment isn't just a nod to Jackman's storied career—it's a testament to the unbreakable bond he shares with the franchise and its passionate fan base. Fans who watched Jackman patrol the ice with the ferocity, tenacity of a watchful protector in shoulder pads. It seems almost inevitable that this role is tailor-made for him. His stature as a Blues icon, someone tough, loyal, and always ready to drop the gloves for his team, mirrors the kind of presence that commands respect both on and off the rink.
The Blues fanbase’s opinion of Jackman wavered from time to time but ultimately has showered Jackman with love for years, seeing him as a true and forever embodiment of Blue Note.
In his new position, Jackman will oversee all facets of the Blues Alumni Association, including its charitable initiatives and day-to-day operations. He'll serve as the primary bridge between the alumni group and the Blues organization, ensuring former players who donned the iconic Blue Note receive vital support for their mental, physical, and overall wellness. Keeping these legends connected to the team is key, and the association will continue its mission of fundraising to nurture the next wave of St. Louis hockey talent while aiding local heroes like police officers, firefighters, veterans, and first responders.
Jackman won't be going it alone. He'll be assisted by senior coordinator Maddie Nash, daughter of former Blue, Tyson Nash, who joined the organization in 2024. As President of the Blues Alumni Board, Jackman leads an impressive lineup that includes Kelly Chase, Paul Cavallini, Jamal Mayers, Chris Pronger, Paul Stastny, and Joey Vitale.
This transition comes as Bruce Affleck steps down after a legendary run. Affleck, helped found the Alumni Association in 1988, leaves behind a legacy of impact with over $800,000 raised for amateur hockey through scholarships and youth team support, plus more than $5 million for St. Louis-area charities focused on Warriors hockey, first responders, cancer research, and local youth programs. His pivotal role in the 'Puck Cancer' Alumni games, which generated over $1 million for cancer research, stands out as a highlight. Affleck's shoes are big ones to fill, but if anyone can lace them up, it's Jackman.
Since hanging up his skates in 2016 after a 14-year NHL career, Jackman has stayed deeply rooted in St. Louis. He served on the Alumni Board, spent two seasons in player development with the Blues from 2016-18, and pursued various business ventures.
On a personal note, he's been coaching his kids in baseball and hockey, and he's currently an assistant coach for the 16U AAA Blues team, where his son Cayden plays. Living in St. Louis with his family post-retirement speaks volumes about his commitment to the community—something that endears him even more to fans who view him as one of their own.
Statistically, Jackman's resume is a defenseman's dream. The 44-year-old from Trail, British Columbia, suited up for 803 regular-season games in a Blues sweater, tallying 181 points (28 goals, 153 assists) and racking up 1,026 penalty minutes. He sits second on the franchise's all-time games played list—the most ever by a Blues blueliner—and fourth in penalty minutes. He's also one of just six defensemen in team history to net a postseason overtime winner. Across his full career, including a stint with Nashville, Jackman appeared in 876 games, amassing 186 points (29 goals, 157 assists) and 1,102 penalty minutes.