Bob Boucher (ice hockey)

Bob Boucher is a fictional character from the 1998 sports comedy film The Waterboy, portrayed by actor Henry Winkler. In the film, Boucher is the perpetually optimistic and somewhat inept head coach of the South Central Louisiana State University (SCU) Mud Dogs football team.

Boucher's coaching style is characterized by his unwavering belief in his players, despite their lack of talent and consistently poor performance. He is often seen as a figure of fun, frequently subjected to pranks and disrespect by the Mud Dogs. His signature phrase is "You can do it!" which he uses to motivate his team.

Initially, Boucher is struggling to prevent the Mud Dogs program from being shut down. His discovery of Bobby Boucher, a socially awkward waterboy with a hidden talent for tackling, is a turning point. Boucher recognizes Bobby's raw potential and convinces him to join the team as a linebacker.

Throughout the film, Boucher acts as a mentor to Bobby, helping him to channel his anger and develop his football skills. While his coaching abilities are questionable, his genuine care for his players and his unwavering positivity contribute to the Mud Dogs' eventual success. Boucher's transformation from an unsuccessful coach to a somewhat vindicated leader is a central comedic element of the film.