RI’s Bennett Family Honored by Brown University for Hockey Legacy

Providence, R.I. – Brown University recently honored the Bennett family for their decades-long contributions to Rhode Island hockey. The dedication ceremony, held at Meehan Auditorium, recognized the family’s impact and coincided with the celebration of the 2026 Senior Class and the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Ivy League Championship team.

A Family Tradition in Hockey

For generations, the Bennett family has been a powerhouse in Rhode Island hockey. The family’s legacy began with Harvey Bennett Sr., a former goaltender who played for the Boston Bruins in the mid-1940s and then spent twelve years with the Rhode Island Reds from 1947-1959. GoLocalProv reports that Harvey Bennett Sr. Settled in Cranston, Rhode Island, with his wife, Diana.

Five Sons, Three NHL Players

Harvey and Diana Bennett raised five sons – Curt, Harvey Jr., John, Bill, and Jim – all of whom excelled in high school hockey at Cranston East. Three of the sons went on to play professional hockey, with some reaching the National Hockey League (NHL).

Brown University Recognition

Brown University has formally recognized the Bennett family’s contributions by dedicating the Bennett Family Suite at Meehan Auditorium. The Brown Hockey Locker Room Center is also named in honor of Curt Bennett ’70, John Bennett ’72, and James Bennett ’79. GoLocalProv noted that Curt and Jim Bennett were present at Saturday’s dedication ceremony.

Continued Legacy

The Bennett family’s hockey legacy extends to a third generation, with Harvey Sr.’s grandchildren also involved in the sport. Jim Bennett’s son, Mac, was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens and played in the American Hockey League in the 2010s.

Recent Brown Hockey News

The Brown men’s ice hockey team recently concluded its 2025-26 regular season with a 3-0 loss to No. 20 Union on February 28, 2026, at Meehan Auditorium. Brown University Athletics reported that the team honored its seven seniors during the game, alongside the Bennett Family and the 1976 Ivy League Championship team. Tyler Shea, Brown’s goaltender, made 39 saves during the game. Brown will face Union again in the opening round of the 2026 ECAC Playoffs on March 7.

“The Hockey Family of Rhode Island”

Buster Clegg of the Rhode Island Hockey Hall of Fame described the Bennett family as “THE hockey family of Rhode Island.”