Ice hockey Books

Book SynopsisThe Goal was only one moment of many that made up a hockey career that lasted twenty years -- and a life that has gone far beyond.     Paul grew up in the small town of Lucknow, Ontario, and played hockey from a young age. He started his professional career with the Detroit Red Wings in 1962, where he played with future Hall of Famers Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio, and Ted Lindsay. He was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs at the end of the decade, and it was there that his career took off, culminating with an invitation to the Summit Series.     In the years following, the most famous hockey player in Canada left the NHL for the rebel WHA, playing with the Birmingham Bulls in the United States. It was in Birmingham that Paul developed and deepened his spirituality -- a quest that had begun in Toronto and would define his life after hockey. He founded The Leadership Group, where he serves as a mentor to other men trying to maintain a spi

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe incredible story of the life and phenomenal career of one of the greatest players ever to wear a Maple Leafs uniform, told through stories and never-before-seen photographs.Darryl Sittler may well be best remembered for two of the most remarkable performances in the history of the National Hockey League. On February 7, 1976, he scored six goals and added four assists for an NHL record total of ten points in a game. That spring, he joined Maurice Richard in hockey history by recording five goals in one playoff game. He also scored one of the most famous goals in hockey history, the overtime goal against Czechoslovakia to win the 1976 Canada Cup.     Now, #27 looks back at his incredible career and greatest moments on and off the ice. He writes about growing up in St. Jacobs, Ontario, his days in junior hockey with the London Knights, and his rookie year in 1970-71. Also included are his personal reflections on some of his greatest teammates

Read more less

Book SynopsisHockey has had its share of bizarre tales over the years, but none compares to the fascinating story of the California Golden Seals, a team that remains the benchmark for how not to run a sports franchise. From 1967 to 1978, a revolving door of players, apathetic owners, and ridiculous marketing decisions turned the Seals, originally based in Oakland, into hockey’s travelling circus.Trade Review“This is my kind of book. Steve Currier dives head first into the history of the Seals. . . . This detailed history of the ill-fated and often forgotten team lets us in on everything that was right, and especially everything that was wrong with the Seals. . . . These were real men with real highs and real lows. Lots of lows. Steve Currier takes us on a great trip back in time to the NHL’s original Northern California adventure.”—Ken Reid, anchor for SportsNet and author of Hockey Card Stories“[Steve Currier] tells the detailed story of this curious, sad sack franchise, chronicling both the legacy of losing and some colorful chapters in NHL history.”—Dave Buchanan, Arete“The Seals are remembered today as one of the most colorful outfits in hockey history. And now the whole story of hockey, chaos, and heartbreak is expertly told in Steve Currier’s The California Golden Seals, a book that shines a long-overdue spotlight on a team and a time, the likes of which we shall never see again.”—Todd Denault, author of Jacques Plante: The Man Who Changed the Face of Hockey "While the Seals were not a success on the ice or on the business pages, they left their mark in hockey history and their story is one that should be told. Currier does this in an entertaining manner and any hockey fan who wants to learn anything about this franchise should read this book."—Lance Smith, Guy Who Reviews Sports BooksTable of ContentsContents List of Illustrations Acknowledgments Introduction 1. San Francisco Treat, 1917–1967 2. The Oakland Error, 1967–1968 3. The Three Musketeers, 1968–1969 4. Hung Over, 1969–1970 5. Fools’ Gold, 1970–1971 6. Young Blood, 1971–1972 7. Goodbye, Oakland, 1972–1973 8. Big Hats, No Cattle, 1973–1974 9. Restoring Pride, 1974–1975 10. Swig vs. Moscone, 1975–1976 11. Mistake on the Lake, 1976–1977 12. One Last Gasp, 1977–1978 13. The Road Home Appendix of Tables: Seals / Barons Record Book Notes Bibliography Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewHistorical Dictionary of Ice Hockey traces in general the history and evolution of the sport.It starts with a chronology from the seventeenth century to the present and then moves to an introductory essay with indepth information on the history of ice hockey. The dictionary portion consists of more than 600 crossreferenced entries on people (players, managers, coaches, and referees) as well as entries for teams, leagues, rules, and statistics. There are nine appendixes, (including NHL franchise movement, information on current teams, and Hall of Fame inductees) as well as an extensive bibliography. This is a great book for anyone wanting to know more about ice hockey. * Booklist *Zeisler, a member of the Society for International Hockey Research, infuses her fan’s love of the game into this entertaining new title. A chronology and introductory essay provide context for the A–Z entries covering an array of players, teams, associations, and related topics. The majority of the references relate to men’s ice hockey, although entries are included for more well-known female athletes. End matter includes appendixes of main franchises and Hall of Fame inductees and champions, as well as an extensive bibliography. VERDICT A lively addition for sports reference collections * Library Journal *Part of Scarecrow's "Historical Dictionary of Sports" series, which also includes volumes on baseball, basketball, golf, and tennis, among others, this edition focuses on the historical development of hockey. Known primarily as a Canadian sport, ice hockey has migrated all over the world and become quite popular in places outside North America. In this volume by independent researcher Zeisler, some 600 alphabetically arranged brief entries--almost all are no more than a full paragraph--cover the evolution of the sport. Entries focus on teams, leagues, awards, penalties, equipment, major figures, and significant rule changes. They are also heavily cross-referenced and concise. The scope of coverage is wide--topics in the women's game are covered, as is the establishment of hockey in such disparate places as Great Britain, the Soviet Union, and Germany. Entries include "Paralympic Hockey," "Hockey Night in Canada," and "Waikiki Hockey"--a Saturday Night Live skit from 1989 featuring Wayne Gretzky. A chronology, beginning with kolven, a 17th-century Dutch game played on ice, appears before the main entries, as does a historical introduction. Other notable features are appendixes listing franchise relocations, Hall of Fame inductees, and various league and Olympic champions. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and above; general readers. * CHOICE *Zeisler, an independent researcher and member of the Society for International Hockey Research and International Society of Olympic Historians, has written this historical dictionary on the evolution of hockey as well as the sport's highlights. This dictionary also provides statistical data and lists information about international organizations and governing bodies. An introductory timeline-arranged chronology spanning from the seventeenth century to May 2012 includes the most pivotal points in the history of ice hockey. The 600-plus entries comprising the body of this dictionary offer well-written, cross-referenced paragraphs that address both the historical aspects of the sport along with the key figures of the sport. A nice balance of historical and biographical entries is achieved and the items chosen for inclusion make for interesting reading. Finally, nine informative appendixes and a thorough bibliography round out the work. Historical Dictionary of ice Hockey is available in either print or e-book format and is recommended for public libraries, for academic libraries supporting sports curricula, and for ice hockey aficionados. * American Reference Books Annual *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThis book charts the growth and history of ice hockey in Europe. It is largely a statistical recap of men's and women's competitions dating from the first competition of the sport in Europe in 1910 through 2012. Since then a total of 66 championships have been competed, most of which were world championships or the Olympics. The work also chronicles the history of women's European championships, which, unfortunately, only included five championship games from 1989-1996 before being discontinued. The work begins with a two-page introduction to the history of the sport. . . .The bulk of the volume consists of statistics on game results, team rosters, medalists, and standings for European championship games. The work also includes a list of unique records, some of which have never been published. * American Reference Books Annual *Table of ContentsAbbreviations Preface Ice Hockey Men’s European Championships Women’s European Championships Records Bibliography About the Author

Read more less

Book SynopsisCatch Canucks fever and celebrate over 40 years of Vancouver Canucks hockey! This must-have collection--jam-packed with 80 pages of puzzles, crosswords, games, trivia, facts and fun for towel-waving fans of all ages--will have you Luu-ing and riding your stick like Tiger Williams in no time. From Harold and the Steamer to Gino and the Russian Rocket, from Trevor Linden to the record setting Sedins, from the high-scoring West Coast Express to back-to-back Presidents'' Trophies, it''s all here in this exciting trivia book that will bring hours of fun and memories to every loyal Canucks fan.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is a collection of some of the greatest moments in hockeyâs recent history, told by the gameâs finest broadcasters. Consisting of Stanley Cup-clinching victories, penalty-minute-accruing brawls, and season-altering contests, these storytellersâ fondest moments are shared in The Voices of Hockey.Trade ReviewSportswriter McKnight, who wrote The Voices of Baseball, turns to his other passion, hockey, which he grew up watching during baseball’s off-season, and the broadcasters who cover the NHL in what McKnight shows is 'arguably the most difficult capacity in the world of major sports.' He conducts 53 interviews with 34 broadcasters, divided into chapters by the 30 major hockey teams.... [E]ach chapter offers fascinating insights, such as Vancouver Canucks announcer John Shorthouse’s description of being 'aghast and in disbelief' while watching Boston Bruin Marty McSorley’s infamous 2000 slashing of Canuck Donald Brashear, which Shorthouse calls one of 'the ugliest incidents in NHL history.' McKnight gives an exemplary history of hockey itself and adds excellent chapters on related subjects such as how changes in hockey arenas have affected how the sport is broadcast, and appends a survey of significant announcers from the past whose influence lives on today. * Publishers Weekly *This compilation of unforgettable stories from 34 professional commentators lets you discover or relive 50 years of some of the greatest moments in NHL history. * Grand Forks Herald *Kirk McKnight has nailed the hockey play-by-play experience in his book! He has linked the voices of the game through comprehensive interviews, all of which accurately portray those who describe the action of the world’s fastest game on radio and television. Want to know what it’s like to call the first period of your favorite NHL team? Kirk’s excellent read will keep you in the booth all the way through overtime. -- Mike Fornes, former broadcaster, Dallas Stars, Washington Capitals, and Hartford WhalersThe idea of talking to broadcasters gives hockey fans a unique and informative look at some of the great moments on ice. The stories related through the eyes of those who paint the pictures for fans allows us to relish treasured moments in hockey like nobody else. I highly recommend The Voices of Hockey. It’s a must read for die-hard hockey fans and others who enjoy historical moments from the NHL. -- Chris Maathuis, sports director, KLAS- 8 News Now, Las VegasTable of ContentsForeword: Breaking the Ice . . . of Fandom Introduction: The Other Miracle on Ice Chapter 1: Anaheim Ducks Chapter 2: Arizona Coyotes Chapter 3: Boston Bruins Chapter 4: Buffalo Sabres Chapter 5: Calgary Flames Chapter 6: Carolina Hurricanes Chapter 7: Chicago Blackhawks Chapter 8: Colorado Avalanche Chapter 9: Columbus Blue Jackets Chapter 10: Dallas Stars Chapter 11: Detroit Red Wings Chapter 12: Edmonton Oilers Chapter 13: Florida Panthers Chapter 14: Los Angeles Kings Chapter 15: Minnesota Wild Chapter 16: Montreal Canadiens Chapter 17: Nashville Predators Chapter 18: New Jersey Devils Chapter 19: New York Islanders Chapter 20: New York Rangers Chapter 21: Ottawa Senators Chapter 22: Philadelphia Flyers Chapter 23: Pittsburgh Penguins Chapter 24: San Jose Sharks Chapter 25: St. Louis Blues Chapter 26: Tampa Bay Lightning Chapter 27: Toronto Maple Leafs Chapter 28: Vancouver Canucks Chapter 29: Washington Capitals Chapter 30: Winnipeg Jets/Winnipeg Jets “Version 2.0” Chapter 31: You Go Away Mad, We’ll Just Go Away Chapter 32: The Case of Cookie Cutter versus Old School Chapter 33: A Séance from the Booth Chapter 34: Living Legends Epilogue: Winding down the Third Period Bibliography Index About the Author

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisMore hockey history for every day of the year!Celebrate hockey history with Hockey 365, The Second Period and be reminded of why you love hockey every day of the year. Whether you are a long-suffering Leafs fan or you cheer for a team that has actually won a Stanley Cup in the last half-century, this compendium will give you a hockey-history fix no matter your allegiance. From the National Hockey League's humble beginnings to the empty seats of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Mike Commito has gone back into the vault to bring you even more hockey history. So, get ready, the second period is about to begin.Trade ReviewLooking forward to a game and circling the date on the calendar is great, but I'll take making a date to read Mike Commito and the greatest games circling back any day. * Ron MacLean, host of Hockey Night in Canada and Rogers Hometown Hockey *If hockey history and great stories are your thing, Mike Commito's second volume of Hockey 365 is most definitely for you. * Bob McKenzie, TSN Hockey Insider *What caught me was the blend of knowledge and history. Hockey 365, The Second Period is filled with historical details shared in stories that cover every day of the year. Whether you’re a hockey lifer or a fringe fan, this book provides a great account of many of the games defining moments and experiences. * Darren Dreger, TSN Hockey Insider *This book is a must-read for hockey history fans, with so many facts and figures so well-researched and explained. * Scotty Bowman, winningest coach in NHL history *Hockey 365, The Second Period is like a daily supplement of hockey vitamins. Mike Commito‘s highly recommended dosage includes a full year’s worth of stories; from the legends Howe, Orr and the Rocket to Gretzky, Lemieux and Crosby. From the Stanley Cup to Olympic glory, stories of the game changers like Willie O’Ree and Kendall Coyne Schofield, and the offbeat from David Ayres to Ariana Grande. Hockey 365, The Second Period rekindles old memories and uncovers forgotten folklore. And you’ll find out how Mike almost lost his job, on the day I called the "Golden Goal." Hockey 365, The Second Period is another great year for hockey! * Chris Cuthbert, commentator for Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada *Hockey 365 is a hockey fan's treat. Mike Commito shares so many good stories that will grow your love for the game. * David Amber, host, Hockey Night in Canada *I loved Mike's book. It's perfect for random fact and trivia nerds like us. Pick it up for five minutes and you'll either learn ten new things, get a healthy dose of nostalgia, or both. * Arda Öcal, ESPN host and voice of the NHL Gaming World Championship *The only thing better than Hockey 365 is a followup edition called Hockey 365, The Second Period. Once again historian Mike Commito has scoured the world of hockey from various generations and leagues to assemble an interesting, enlightening and at times funny collection of stories from every day of the year. Who knew Gordie Howe coached one NHL game? Or that South Korea trounced Thailand 92-0 in an international game? Or that pop star Ariana Grande was hit by pucks on the right wrist and then the left wrist at a very young age while attending separate Florida Panthers' home games? Commito gets full credit for this edition, in particular providing content about the contributions of Black and women players. * Perry Lefko, co-author of Eddie Olczyk’s Beating the Odds and Nick Kypreos’s Undrafted *As an author of more than 90 hockey books, I know a good literary job on our favourite sport when I see it — and read it. Mike Commito also could be nicknamed "Mike Committed," as his work has proven. His research is both impeccable and impressive. The bottom line; when in need of research for some ice facts, I go to Mike's Hockey 365 books. He scores for me every time. * Stan Fischler, Emmy Award-winning hockey journalist and publisher and author of the Fischler Report *Hockey 365, The Second Period is light and fun, but somehow still packed with trivia from every era of the game. A perfect one-a-day or in-one-sitting read. You won't even realize you're learning! * Ryan Lambert, NHL columnist for EP Rinkside and co-host of Puck Soup *A fun primer on hockey history presented in 365 easy-to-digest nuggets. Something that will appeal to hockey fans, young and old, experienced or raw newcomers. * Eric Duhatschek, Senior Writer, The Athletic *Mike Commito has done it again. The author pinballs through hockey history, scooping up the intriguing, easy-to-digest tales from both the ice and the boardrooms. Commito's rich knowledge of and deep love for the game seeps through in his daily flashbacks, like the time Gordie Howe tried coaching or Phil Kessel stuffed the Stanley Cup full of hot dogs. * Luke Fox, NHL writer, Sportsnet *Take a trip through the colourful history of the NHL with this thoroughly enjoyable book. Mike makes the journey a fun ride by presenting to you facts, and figures, in easily digestible bits. Highly recommended! * Mick Kern, SiriusXM NHL Network Radio *An entertaining and captivating book that shares hockey stories from both the men's and women's game. * Cassie Campbell-Pascall, Captain of two gold medal Olympic hockey teams and Hockey Night in Canada broadcaster *Endlessly fascinating. Despite how much I learned I actually feel dumber for not knowing how much I didn't know. * Justin Bourne, co-host of Hockey Central on Sportsnet 590 The FAN and writer, Sportsnet *A friendly warning for hockey lovers — Hockey 365, The Second Period is seriously addictive. Once you start reading, the hardest part will be stopping. * Lisa Dillman, Senior Writer, The Athletic *A great framework here — the daily hockey story — for peculiar, dramatic, near-forgotten, outrageous, and heroic narratives that have sailed with the game's sea of history. * Dave Bidini, a founding member of Rheostatics and author of Tropic of Hockey and Keon and Me *You needn't be a historian to enjoy Hockey 365, The Second Period. Mike's curiosity, superb research skills, and attention to the finest details highlight some of the great, well-known moments in hockey and some of the fascinating off-beat events, too. His first Hockey 365 was a true delight, as is this welcome addition to it. Here's hoping Mike has a Third Period in mind, as well as Overtime and Shootout volumes, too. * Dave Stubbs, Columnist, NHL.com *Hockey 365, The Second Period has something for every hockey fan. Whether you've been studying the game since I was in the crease or you're just getting into the sport now, this book is bound to teach you some things and remind you why you love hockey. * Kelly Hrudey, former NHL goaltender and analyst for Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada *Hockey 365 is a fun tour through hockey history. Well-researched, original, and filled with a ton of entertaining anecdotes — this book is a wonderful reminder of why we love the game. * Emily Kaplan, National NHL reporter, ESPN *This is such a great way to remember some amazing hockey history. Looking at the entry about my trade to the Leafs brought me right back to that exact moment. As a fan, I got excited seeing things from when I was a kid. I was watching when Bobby Orr's number was retired. I even learned a thing or two (Montreal and Detroit played in Paris!). A must-read for anyone who loves hockey. * Doug Gilmour, former NHL player and Hockey Hall of Fame inductee *Whether you're a hockey diehard or a relatively new fan, it can be hard to grasp the full range of the sport's history. From the amazing to the embarrassing, tear-jerking to hilarious, noble to the bizarre, this game never stops serving up stories. And if you think you know them all, Mike Committo's Hockey 365 series will remind you that there's always another tale to discover. * Sean McIndoe, The Athletic *For the hockey fan in your life Hockey 365 has everything. From the Golden Goal to Kendall Coyne Schofield's All-Star lap to David Ayres to my brother Craig scoring his 50th goal. It was fun to relive so many hockey moments, a new one each day, some famous and some infamous. A thoroughly entertaining read. * Christine Simpson, Rinkside and features reporter for Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada *If you're a hockey fan you have to read this book. I was blown away by all of the great stories, stats, and hockey news that I didn't know. The day-by-day stories were a really fun way to learn about this great sport. It was cool to read about stories from the inception of the game all the way through to 2020. I've read a lot of hockey books and this one kept me engaged the whole time. Good for all ages! * John Scott, former NHL player and 2016 NHL All-Star Game MVP *Hockey 365 is the ultimate fan's daily inspirational devotional. Start each morning right with a quick, cool, or unusual hockey fact — it will set the path for a fantastic day, no matter what time of year. * Frank Seravalli, Hockey insider *I've been a fan of Mike's for years and this book did not disappoint whatsoever. It's the perfect mix of storytelling and history of the game. Mike is a master of weaving them together and every day I learn something new from him about the game we love. * Jamie McLennan, former NHL goalie and TSN analyst *The game of hockey is built on passion not just the passion of its players and coaches but on the passion of people like Mike Commito and that is revealed in every page in this fun and informative book. * Scott Burnside, Senior Writer, The Athletic *Hockey 365, The Second Period: More Daily Stories from the Ice features more old-school hockey stories, formed into easily digestible tidbits — perfect for today's attention span. From events in hockey history that most fans remember to the moments that may have otherwise gone forgotten, Mike's book has something for everyone. As a big fan of the women's game, I particularly appreciate Mike's inclusion of some of the greatest moments in women's hockey history too! * Tara Slone, Co-Host, Rogers Hometown Hockey and Host, Top Of [Her] Game *Mike Commito has done it again with a good idea, well executed. Hockey 365, The Second Period follows up on his Hockey 365, it's basically a "This Day in History" telling of the most compelling stories in hockey. Perfect as an introduction to sport if you're a new fan or an oldtimer nostalgic for the old days, or simply into history, like when the first Stanley Cup was awarded (May 15, 1893), or hockey trivia, like how Nathan Horton got credit for a goal in a game in which he didn't play (April 9, 2014). Written as a story-a-day per page, it can be enjoyed over a few sittings, or over 365 days. * Kevin McGran, Sports Reporter, Toronto Star *Once again, Mike Commito combines his vast knowledge and passion for hockey history in an unparalleled collection of the game's best stories. Hockey 365, The Second Period is an addictive read, filled with fascinating details about the moments and legends that captivate us. * Dan Robson, Senior Enterprise Writer, The Athletic and author of Measuring Up *Mike proves that the game never stops. You'll learn new stories and be brought back to familiar ones that made you fall in love with hockey in the first place. * Ken Reid, Co-Host, Sportsnet Central and best-selling author *This book is a must for hockey traditionalists and new fans alike. It is an interesting look at the game through the eyes of an experienced hockey historian, and his passion pays off in the writing. I read it twice ... so far! * Terry Ryan, former NHL player and author of Tales of A First-round Nothing: My Life as an NHL Footnote *Mike Commito has done it again. Hockey 365, The Second Period is chock full of fun and fascinating stories about hockey that informs and entertains readers. Whether it's a well-known fact or a piece of obscure trivia, Commito's prose brings the events of the past to life and makes you want to jump a day ahead to see what happened tomorrow. It's the perfect gift for the hockey fan in your life. * Rear Admiral, Co-host of the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast and writer, Barstool Sports *Mike Commito's latest collection of stories in Hockey 365 evokes the best type of nostalgia for any hockey fan. It is an honour to have my "Bonino, Bonino, Bonino" call from Hockey Night in Canada in Punjabi represented amidst so many other great memories and stories of the game. I will be sure to use this book as a resource when preparing to call games in the future! * Harnarayan Singh, Commentator for Hockey Night in Canada, Sportsnet, and bestselling author of One Game at a Time *From recent stories to historical ones, Hockey 365, The Second Period is a great trip through history to discuss daily with not only your hockey friends, but all sports fans. * Martin Biron, Buffalo Sabres studio analyst and former NHL goalie *Great read on hockey history that will spark your love of the game and the players who helped grow it. * Manon Rheaume, first and only woman to play in the NHL *Hockey stitches our country together from coast-to-coast and generation-to-generation. Like a square on a quilt, each story can bring you back to moments of joy shared with those close to you. Whether it be family, friends, or the shared allegiance of fandom, like a quilt, this book will warm your heart. * Craig Button, TSN analyst and scout *Hockey's version of an advent calendar, with a treat of a story for every day of the year. * James Duthie, TSN and author of Beauties: Hockey's Greatest Untold Stories *

Read more less

Book Synopsis Entering the 1978-1979 season, the Boston Bruins had been one of the best teams in the National Hockey League for more than a decade. Yet they could not shake the postseason jinx the Montreal Canadiens held over them--the Habs had ousted them in 13 consecutive playoff series going back to 1940s. The Bruins wanted one more shot at their nemeses, after coming up short in both the 1977 and 1978 Stanley Cup finals. They got their chance in the semifinal round. Led by the colorful but embattled coach Don Cherry, the underdog Bruins played seven heart-stopping games. Victory seemed within their grasp but was snatched away with an untimely penalty in the final minutes of game seven. The author looks back at the season from opening night at Boston Garden to the catastrophic conclusion at the Montreal Forum, with detailed accounts of the semifinal games and a post-mortem of the infamous bench penalty.

Read more less

Book Synopsis America and Canada both saw historic sports milestones in 1993. While the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bulls reigned supreme, the Toronto Blue Jays won a second consecutive World Series on a walk-off homer, and the Montreal Canadiens emerged as the last Canadian team to win a Stanley Cup. While stars like Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky and Joe Montana overcame physical and emotional challenges to make history, teams were performing unprecedented feats, from the Buffalo Bills'' unrivaled comeback on Wild Card Weekend to the Baltimore Orioles'' unveiling of their transformative ballpark design during All-Star Week. Drawing on original interviews with dozens of former players and coaches, this book revisits an exceptional sports year for fans across North America, with memorable stories involving some of the most iconic sports figures of the 1990s. Trade ReviewDavid Ostrowsky deftly brings to life a sports year for the ages with his vivid memories of the Michael Jordan dynasty, Joe Montana's last legitimate shot at a Super Bowl ring, Joe Carter's epic World Series walk-off, and the reemergence of America's Team in Dallas. This book is a true delight for fans who love to relive the moments on the field that make them feel forever young." - Ian O'Connor, New York Times bestselling author of Belichick, The Captain, and Arnie & Jack"David paints a wonderful picture of the 1993 sports scene. He dramatically captures the magic of the Joe Montana and Marcus Allen led Chiefs season that was one to remember. From David's descriptions, you don't even have to be a Chiefs fan to understand how captivating 1993 was in Kansas City!" - Joe Valerio, former member of the Kansas City Chiefs and nominee for 1995 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award"To be honest-1993 meant nothing to me. It was no different to my memories than 1992 or 1994. But then David Ostrowsky comes along with this love letter to a year that (who knew?) actually changed and redefined the sports landscape. Kirby Puckett! Joe Montana! Lenny Dykstra! Emmitt Smith! Who knew one sliver of calendar time could be so damn fun?" - Jeff Pearlman, New York Times bestselling author of Boys Will Be Boys and Showtime"Remember 1993, when Joe Montana hobbled off into the Kansas City sunset of his career and John Starks had the nerve to challenge Michael Jordan? David Ostrowsky not only remembers, he did his homework to research that wild year and to capture it with passion and style." - Jonathan Eig, author of Luckiest Man, Opening Day, and Ali: A LifeTable of Contents Acknowledgments Introduction 1. Montana's Last Stand 2. "An ­Old-Fashioned Ballpark with Modern Amenities" 3. When Michael Jordan (and the Chicago Bulls) Owned the NBA 4. Canada's Last Stanley Cup 5. Shot Heard 'Round North America 6. How 'Bout Them Cowboys? 7. The Comeback Game Epilogue Chapter Notes Bibliography Index

Read more less

Book Synopsis The 1969-70 season marked a turning point in the history of the National Hockey League. The season began with a near fatality and it culminated on a steamy Sunday afternoon in Boston with one of the NHL''s most iconic moments. In the interim, the 12 NHL clubs staged thrilling and memorable playoff races that were not decided until the final regular-season games were played. The three traditional powerhouse teams from the Original Six era faltered while former underdog clubs began to vie for top honors. Along the way, Boston''s Bobby Orr made history by becoming the first defenseman to win the NHL scoring title, three aging veterans in Detroit combined to form the most effective forward line in hockey, and a rookie goalie, Tony Esposito, lifted the Chicago Black Hawks from the basement to a divisional championship. Told here are the numerous other wonderful, strange, and captivating incidents that made the fun, fascinating, and free-wheeling 53rd NHL season one for the ages.Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsNotes on Names, Spellings and TermsPreface: Childhood MemoriesPart I: The NHL Before 1969–701. What a Difference a Decade Makes!2. The Original Six Era: Big Three, Little Three3. From Six Teams to 12: The NHL Doubles Down4. The Mild, Mild West: Not Separate but Not EqualPart II: The 1969–70 NHL Season5. Mayhem in Ottawa: The Wayne ­­Maki–Ted Green Incident6. The Old Boys' Club: The NHL's Geezer Goaltenders7. How Mick Jagger Nearly Caused an NHL Forfeit8. Organic Matter: The East Dominates the ­­All-Star Game9. A Cool Wedding Quashed10. "Boston's Mighty Orr" Leads the Bruins11. The New York Rangers: Revamped and Dangerous12. Chicago Black Hawks Rising … with Shutouts13. The Suddenly Soaring Detroit Red Wings14. Montreal Canadiens: Unknowingly on Thin Ice15. Toronto Maple Leafs: Treading Water16. St. Louis Blues: The Biggest of the Small Fish17. Pittsburgh Penguins: Improving and Anonymous18. Minnesota North Stars: Drawn and Quartered19. Oakland Seals: Struggling to Be Relevant20. The Kings: Losing and Loathing in Los Angeles21. Philadelphia Flyers: 24 Ties … But Still One Short22. The Plummeting New Yorkers23. It Happened One Night: The Rangers' Long Bus Ride24. Surging Popularity: The Numbers Speak for Themselves25. Saturday, April 4: Clearly Clarifying Nothing26. Sunday, April 5 (A): Theater of the Absurd27. Sunday, April 5 (B): Five ­­Empty-Net GoalsPart III: The All-American 1970 Stanley Cup Playoffs28. The Stanley Cup … Canada's Trophy?29. The Quarterfinals: Blowouts, Brawls and a Bounty30. ­Boston–Chicago Semifinal: A Surprising Sweep31. St. ­­Louis–Pittsburgh Semifinal: The Blues Are TestedPart IV: The Finals—From Shadow Treatment to Classic Finish32. Game #1: Plante Goes Down; Bruins Go Up33. Game #2: Another Half Dozen Goals34. Game #3: "We Are Looking Forward to Sunday"35. "First Annual Bobby Orr Awards Luncheon"36. Anticipation37. Game #4: "And What Could Be Better Than That?"38. A Photo for the AgesPart V: Denouement39. Celebrations40. Michel Brière: An Athlete Dying Young41. An Unexpected Resignation42. The Strange Death of Terry Sawchuk43. Social Notice: Say, Who's That Fellow Dating Bernie Geoffrion's Daughter?44. The NHL's Tiebreaker and Divisional Realignment45. The Cup, the Bruins and the Rest of the Original Six46. The 1967 Expansion TeamsAftermath: MiscellanyChapter NotesReferencesIndex

Read more less

Book Synopsis When the NHL announced in early 1976 that its two worst teams, the Washington Capitals and Kansas City Scouts, would travel to Japan for a four-game exhibition series dubbed the Coca-Cola Bottlers'' Cup, fans and media were baffled. The Capitals and the Scouts were both expansion teams, with a combined 46 wins, 236 losses and 38 ties in their first two seasons--stats made more dismal when considering seven of those wins were against each other. Yet lagging so hopelessly behind the rest of the NHL, they were perfect for a one-off event on the other side of the globe. The series was an eye-opening success. Players skated on an Olympic swimming pool ringed with rickety boards hung with fishing nets that boomeranged pucks into their faces, as curious Japanese fans gasped at the gap-toothed Canadians wrestling on the ice. Filled with rare photos and player recollections, this book tells the story of how two league doormats became hockey heroes half-way around the world.Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsPrefacePeriod1. Kicking and Screaming: An Introduction to Expansion in the NHL2. In the Beginning3. A Sandy Foundation: The 1974 Expansion DraftPeriod4. The Washington Capitals, 1974–755. The Kansas City Scouts, 1974–75Period6. The Washington Capitals, 1975–767. The Kansas City Scouts, 1975–76Overtime8. The ­Coca-Cola Bottlers' Cup9. AftermathAppendix: StatisticsChapter NotesBibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis Awareness, anticipation, physical conditioning . . . these are just some of the qualities a goaltender needs to bring onto the ice at game time. Excellence requires practice, consistency, and understandingof the position, the situation, and your talents. No one knows this better than Eli Wilson does. Widely recognized as the leading authority on goaltending, he has worked alongside 30 NHL goaltenders, including Carey Price, Ray Emery, Tuukka Rask, and Brian Elliott. In Hockey Goaltending, Eli Wilson and Brian van Vliet have created the definitive guide to stopping more pucks, winning more games, and lowering your goals against average. Inside, you will find coverage on every facet of the position: Selection of the right equipment for fit and functionality Stance and presence in the net, including footwork, stick placement, and body positioning Puck stopping, from save selection to execution Postsave recovery strategies, including controlling and directing rebounds Tactics for breakaways, odd-man rushes, and wraparounds Focus and visualization methods to improve the mental game On- and off-ice drills and training programs for year-round conditioning to increase strength, stamina, speed, and agility Suggestions for building productive relationships between head coaches, goaltending coaches, and goaltenders From skills to strategies, equipment to exercises, Hockey Goaltending covers the position like no other. Packed with drills, step-by-step instructions, photos, diagrams, and coaching tips, this book touches on every aspect of the game so you can compete at the highest level. Trade Review“Eli Wilson’s approach and mindset helped me break into the best league in the world with confidence. Both are on display for you in Hockey Goaltending.”—Brian Elliott, NHL Goaltender, 2006-present, NHL All Star, 2012, 2015 “Eli is sharing a lifetime’s worth of learned secrets in Hockey Goaltending. I am happy to know that the next Patrick Roy, Martin Brodeur, or Carey Price will have taken part of their game from my good friend Eli.”—Ray Emery, NHL Goaltender, 2005-2016 “I have worked with Eli pretty much since I started playing goal as a kid. The things that have always stood out to me are his intensity on the ice and his genuine passion for the position. I continue to enjoy working with him and talking with him about goaltending to this day.” —Devan Dubnyk, Goaltender for the Minnesota Wild “Eli Wilson is always exploring and instituting new ways and ideas to help goaltenders become more proficient and consistent in their position. Our goaltending world is an ever-changing environment where technical modifications occur almost yearly, and the dialogue he and I have shared over the past decade has been invaluable to me as a coach.”—Bob Essensa, Goaltending Coach for the Boston Bruins Table of ContentsChapter 1. Selecting and Fitting Gear Chapter 2. Stance and Movement Chapter 3. Save Execution Chapter 4. Postsave Recovery Chapter 5. Puck Handling Chapter 6. Tactics Chapter 7. Off-Ice Training Chapter 8. The Mental Game Chapter 9. The Complete Goaltender

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisMore than twenty years after departing Hartford, Connecticut, for Raleigh, North Carolina, the NHL''s Whalers continue to inspire passion among fans. As HartfordBusiness.com reported in 2015, Whalers merchandise...still has a cult following not only among fans in Connecticut but around the country. But Whalers devotees aren''t just clamoring for jerseys, hats and t-shirts. They''re nostalgic for a team that had New England roots for nearly 25 years--in Boston, Springfield, and Hartford--and featured some of the greatest players in NHL history, including Gordie Howe (with his sons Mark and Marty), Bobby Hull, and Ron Francis. Pat Pickens's book details the Whalers' origin in Boston in 1972, the team's WHA championship in 1973, the roof collapse of their home arena that indirectly led to their entrance to the NHL in 1979, their stunning NHL playoff-series win against the top-seeded Quebec Nordiques in 1986, the 1986-87 season when they claimed their first division championshiTrade Review"Hockey fans continue to have a fascination with the Whalers franchise, with good reason. From the rough early years, to the development of an exciting young team that thrilled one of sport’s most underrated fan bases, to the final years of controversy and chaos, Pat Pickens's account of the team’s colorful history is a terrific read. It’s filled with memories from over a dozen figures who continue to have a powerful impact on the NHL to this day."--Rick Peckham, former play-by-play announcer for the Whalers and Tampa Bay Lightning"Pat Pickens's book captured more than a historical account of a sports franchise but rather a story about the deep connection between Hartford and its Whalers. Through cheers and tears the characters in the book remain fondly connected to Hartford." --Mike Liut, Whalers goalie, 1985-90"We may not have realized how special the Hartford Whalers were at the time, but as I look back it was a privilege to play for the team. I still keep in touch and get together with many of my ex-teammates from those days, which were unlike any other in my pro career. The Whalers brought back fond memories of my time playing in Hartford." --Paul Lawless, Whalers forward, 1982-88

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisLine changes, limited time outs, and pucks traveling 100 miles per hour—hockey is called “the fastest game on Earth” for a reason. Keeping up with this non-stop action, especially for decades on end, takes a special kind of talent. Today’s NHL broadcasters capture the game in arguably the most difficult capacity in the world of sports, giving the fans a guide to the action in a way nobody else could. With careers outlasting the players, coaches, general managers, and, in some cases, the city itself, the NHL’s broadcasters have more than their fair share of stories to tell. In The Voices of Hockey: Broadcasters Reflect on the Fastest Game on Earth, Kirk McKnight takes forty-two of the game’s most gifted play-by-play broadcasters—including ten hall of famers—and shares their many insights, memories, and experiences. These broadcasters have witnessed all-time greats such as Gordie Howe, Bobby Hull, Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, Sidney Crosby, and Alexander Ovechkin, making them the ideal voices to pay tribute to the legends of yesterday and the heroes of tomorrow. The Voices of Hockey brings the reader down to the surface of the ice to experience overtime marathons, record-setting performances, bloodied fights, intense rivalries, and the raising of the Stanley Cup, with details and inside perspectives from some of the most qualified spectators of the game. From Bob Miller’s description of “The Miracle on Manchester” to John Kelly’s childhood recollection of Bobby Orr’s famous “flying goal,” this book is truly an encapsulation of the NHL over the past fifty years. Generations of hockey fans will enjoy reliving their favorite moments and reading about those they missed in this unique and captivating view of the fastest game on Earth.Trade ReviewSportswriter McKnight, who wrote The Voices of Baseball, turns to his other passion, hockey, which he grew up watching during baseball’s off-season, and the broadcasters who cover the NHL in what McKnight shows is 'arguably the most difficult capacity in the world of major sports.' He conducts 53 interviews with 34 broadcasters, divided into chapters by the 30 major hockey teams.... [E]ach chapter offers fascinating insights, such as Vancouver Canucks announcer John Shorthouse’s description of being 'aghast and in disbelief' while watching Boston Bruin Marty McSorley’s infamous 2000 slashing of Canuck Donald Brashear, which Shorthouse calls one of 'the ugliest incidents in NHL history.' McKnight gives an exemplary history of hockey itself and adds excellent chapters on related subjects such as how changes in hockey arenas have affected how the sport is broadcast, and appends a survey of significant announcers from the past whose influence lives on today. * Publishers Weekly *This compilation of unforgettable stories from 34 professional commentators lets you discover or relive 50 years of some of the greatest moments in NHL history. * Grand Forks Herald *Kirk McKnight has nailed the hockey play-by-play experience in his book! He has linked the voices of the game through comprehensive interviews, all of which accurately portray those who describe the action of the world’s fastest game on radio and television. Want to know what it’s like to call the first period of your favorite NHL team? Kirk’s excellent read will keep you in the booth all the way through overtime. -- Mike Fornes, former broadcaster, Dallas Stars, Washington Capitals, and Hartford WhalersThe idea of talking to broadcasters gives hockey fans a unique and informative look at some of the great moments on ice. The stories related through the eyes of those who paint the pictures for fans allows us to relish treasured moments in hockey like nobody else. I highly recommend The Voices of Hockey. It’s a must read for die-hard hockey fans and others who enjoy historical moments from the NHL. -- Chris Maathuis, sports director, KLAS- 8 News Now, Las VegasTable of ContentsForeword: Breaking the Ice . . . of Fandom Introduction: The Other Miracle on Ice Chapter 1: Anaheim Ducks Chapter 2: Arizona Coyotes Chapter 3: Boston Bruins Chapter 4: Buffalo Sabres Chapter 5: Calgary Flames Chapter 6: Carolina Hurricanes Chapter 7: Chicago Blackhawks Chapter 8: Colorado Avalanche Chapter 9: Columbus Blue Jackets Chapter 10: Dallas Stars Chapter 11: Detroit Red Wings Chapter 12: Edmonton Oilers Chapter 13: Florida Panthers Chapter 14: Los Angeles Kings Chapter 15: Minnesota Wild Chapter 16: Montreal Canadiens Chapter 17: Nashville Predators Chapter 18: New Jersey Devils Chapter 19: New York Islanders Chapter 20: New York Rangers Chapter 21: Ottawa Senators Chapter 22: Philadelphia Flyers Chapter 23: Pittsburgh Penguins Chapter 24: San Jose Sharks Chapter 25: St. Louis Blues Chapter 26: Tampa Bay Lightning Chapter 27: Toronto Maple Leafs Chapter 28: Vancouver Canucks Chapter 29: Washington Capitals Chapter 30: Winnipeg Jets/Winnipeg Jets “Version 2.0” Chapter 31: You Go Away Mad, We’ll Just Go Away Chapter 32: The Case of Cookie Cutter versus Old School Chapter 33: A Séance from the Booth Chapter 34: Living Legends Epilogue: Winding down the Third Period Bibliography Index About the Author

Read more less

Book SynopsisCelebrate the 50th anniversary of the Boston Bruins’ 1970 Stanley Cup championship season by reliving all the moments in Kooks and Degenerates on Ice. While the United States seethed from racial violence, war, and mass shootings, the 1969-70 “Big, Bad Bruins,” led by the legendary Bobby Orr, brushed off their perennial losing ways to defeat the St. Louis Blues in the Stanley Cup Finals for their first championship in 29 years. In Kooks and Degenerates on Ice: Bobby Orr, the Big Bad Bruins, and the Stanley Cup Championship That Transformed Hockey, Thomas J. Whalen recounts all the memorable moments from that championship season. Behind the no-nonsense yet inspired leadership of head coach Harry Sinden, the once laughingstock Bruins became the talk of the sporting world. Nicknamed the “Big, Bad Bruins” for their propensity to out-brawl and intimidate their opponents, the team rallied around the otherworldly play of Bobby Orr and his hard-hitting teammates to take the NHL by surprise in a season to remember. Kooks and Degenerates on Ice brings to life all the colorful personalities and iconic players from this Stanley Cup-raising team. In addition, the season is placed into its historical context as the United States struggled with issues of war, race, politics, and class, making this a must-read for sports enthusiasts, hockey fans, and those interested in twentieth-century American history.

Read more less

Book SynopsisCelebrate the 50th anniversary of the Boston Bruins’ 1970 Stanley Cup championship season by reliving all the moments in Kooks and Degenerates on Ice.While the United States seethed from racial violence, war, and mass shootings, the 1969-70 “Big, Bad Bruins,” led by the legendary Bobby Orr, brushed off their perennial losing ways to defeat the St. Louis Blues in the Stanley Cup Finals for their first championship in 29 years.In Kooks and Degenerates on Ice: Bobby Orr, the Big Bad Bruins, and the Stanley Cup Championship That Transformed Hockey, Thomas J. Whalen recounts all the memorable moments from that championship season. Behind the no-nonsense yet inspired leadership of head coach Harry Sinden, the once laughingstock Bruins became the talk of the sporting world. Nicknamed the “Big, Bad Bruins” for their propensity to out-brawl and intimidate their opponents, the team rallied around the otherworldly play of Bobby Orr and his hard-hitting teammates to take the NHL by surprise in a season to remember. Kooks and Degenerates on Ice brings to life all the colorful personalities and iconic players from this Stanley Cup-raising team. In addition, the season is placed into its historical context as the United States struggled with issues of war, race, politics, and class, making this a must-read for sports enthusiasts, hockey fans, and those interested in twentieth-century American history.Trade ReviewWhalen vividly takes readers through the arc of the winning season, from early season struggles to the eventual Stanley Cup victory over the St. Louis Blues with Orr’s game-winning goal, captured in the famous flying Superman photo. This exciting slice of hockey history is an open-net goal for Bruins fans. * Publishers Weekly *If you know—without going to Google—the significance of the figure 13,909 (a full house in the old Boston Garden), whom Ted Green fought with in his greatest ice bout (Wayne Maki), and the hometown of Bobby Orr (Parry Sound, Ontario), then Thomas J. Whalen has written a book specifically for you. If all this is a mystery, then Whalen also has written a book specifically for you. -- David Shribman, Massachusetts native and Pulitzer Prize-winning former Washington bureau chief of The Boston GlobeIf you are one of the thousands of New England Baby Boomers who can never get enough of Bobby Orr and the Bruins of the 1970s, here's another book for your collection. -- Dan Shaughnessy, Boston Globe, and author of the New York Times bestseller FranconaTom Whalen provides an excellent concise history of the Bruins while placing their legendary swashbuckling teams of the late sixties and early seventies in the rich social context of their times. Much like those Bruins, this is a book that should delight non-hockey fans as well as diehards. -- Richard A. Johnson, curator, The Sports MuseumBoston, the city on the hill, has been blessed above all others in sports history. The run of the Celtics was incomparable, the Patriots have accomplished the nearly impossible, and though long in coming the Sox have had their moments in the sun. Although the Bruins have never quite matched the others, they, perhaps more than the rest, have captured the heart of the city, especially during the Bobby Orr era. Legendary stuff. And Thomas J. Whalen brings it back in all its salty, crazy drama. -- Randy Roberts, co-author of War Fever: Boston, Baseball and America in the Shadow of the Great WarTable of ContentsPreface 1: 1970 2: Hub of Hockey3: Breaking Bad 4: Spelling Power5: Brawling and Sweeping 6: Beating the Blues7: Dynasty’s End8: Boys of WinterSelected Bibliography IndexAbout the Author

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe extraordinary true story of the U.S. sled hockey team that overcame physical adversity and internal strife to win Paralympic gold.When former NHL star Rick Middleton accepted the position of head coach for the United States sled hockey team, he wasn’t sure what to expect. The program had never medaled—had never even come close, in fact. But where Middleton might have found despair, he instead found an incredible group of men who had battled their way back from hell to play the sport they love.In Hockey’s Hidden Gods: The Untold Story of a Paralympic Miracle on Ice, S.C. Megale uncovers the remarkable tale of a team that shocked the world by taking U.S. sled hockey from worst to first in the 2002 Paralympics. Odds of winning were dismal. The road to victory seemed unfathomable. But this cast of fifteen athletes with disabilities, athletes who had helped build a groundbreaking U.S. sled hockey program with almost no outside support, ultimately persevered on the global stage. Featuring a fascinating history of sled hockey, exclusive interviews with players and coaches, action-packed game coverage, and intimate profiles sharing the players’ personal journeys, Hockey’s Hidden Gods is the uplifting story of how once-shattered dreams can be reborn and rebuilt through tenacity, grit, and an indomitable spirit.Trade ReviewA great book and story about another miracle: the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices these young men went through to accomplish an incredible goal. The incredible effort individually and collectively that they put together to win their gold medal is a great message for all of us. -- Mike Eruzione, captain of the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” US Olympic Hockey teamThe stories told within these pages will capture your heart and challenge you to think differently. From the history of the incredible sport of sled hockey, to the stories of community, taking risks, defining and redefining winning, and the true passion and dedication to overcoming adversity, this book is a true victor’s tale. The way the pages flow purposefully together and weave with emotion will leave you wanting more. It is a privilege to have these stories shared, and to experience life through the eyes of those within. -- Jim Craig, Goaltender of the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” U.S. Olympic Hockey teamTable of ContentsForewordPrefaceIntroductionKey for Player StatsChapter 1: Lake of Legend: Sled Hockey’s History, Rules, and EquipmentChapter 2: Manny Guerra, Jr.Chapter 3: NaganoChapter 4: Joe HowardChapter 5: Gathering the TeamChapter 6: Sly FlisChapter 7: Training ChampionsChapter 8: Patrick ByrneChapter 9: Arriving in Salt Lake CityChapter 10: Dave ConklinChapter 11: Game One: USA vs. JapanChapter 12: Chris MannsChapter 13: Game Two: USA vs. CanadaChapter 14: Josh WirtChapter 15: Game Three: USA vs. NorwayChapter 16: Brian RuheChapter 17: Kip St. GermaineChapter 18: Game Four: USA vs. SwedenChapter 19: Dan HendersonChapter 20: Game Five: USA vs. EstoniaChapter 21: James DunhamChapter 22: Pat SappChapter 23: The Storm Before the StormChapter 24: Gold Medal Game: USA vs. NorwayChapter 25: Lonnie HannahChapter 26: Matt Coppens and Jack SandersChapter 27: AftermathConclusionAcknowledgmentsAbout the Author

Read more less