Introduction
Gerry Cheevers is a name that brings a smile to every hockey fan’s face. He is a former Canadian ice hockey goaltender who played for the Boston Bruins and Cleveland Crusaders in the 1960s and 1970s. Cheevers was known not only for his amazing reflexes and saves on the ice but also for his unique goalie mask. Let us delve into the life of this legendary player and explore his achievements, struggles, and contributions to the game of hockey.
Early Life and Career
Gerry Cheevers was born on December 7, 1940, in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. His passion for hockey started at an early age when he began playing on outdoor rinks and ponds with his friends. Cheevers started his professional career on the Niagara Falls Flyers in 1958 and played in the Ontario Hockey Association for four seasons. In 1961, he was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL amateur draft, but he struggled to get playing time.
Joining Boston Bruins
In 1965, Gerry Cheevers signed with the Boston Bruins and found his place on the ice. He played an instrumental role in the team’s Stanley Cup victories in 1970 and 1972. Cheevers earned his first All-Star nomination in the 1968-69 season and continued to impress with his stellar saves and clutch performances. He was fearless in net and developed a reputation for never giving up on a play.
The Cheevers Mask
One of the most iconic things about Gerry Cheevers was his goalie mask. Before Cheevers, goalies did not wear masks on a regular basis. However, Cheevers was struck in the mask during a game in 1968 and subsequently began painting stitches on his mask to indicate where he would have been cut if he was not wearing it. From that day on, the “stitch mask” became his signature look and a symbol of toughness and resilience. Cheevers continued to paint new stitches on his mask throughout his career.
Post-Bruins Career
After spending most of his career with the Boston Bruins, Gerry Cheevers moved on to play with the Cleveland Crusaders in 1976. He spent two seasons with the team before retiring from professional hockey as a player. Cheevers then returned to the NHL as a coach for the Boston Bruins and later served as the head coach for the Hartford Whalers.
Achievements and Awards
Gerry Cheevers’ accolades include:
– Two-time Stanley Cup champion
– NHL All-Star (1968-69, 1971-72)
– Vezina Trophy winner (1972)
– Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame (1985)
– Inducted into the Boston Bruins Hall of Fame (1985)
FAQs
1. What is Gerry Cheevers known for?
Gerry Cheevers is known for being a legendary ice hockey goaltender who played for the Boston Bruins and Cleveland Crusaders in the 1960s and 1970s. He was also famous for painting stitches on his goalie mask to symbolize where he would have been cut if he wasn’t wearing it.
2. Why is Gerry Cheevers’ mask famous?
Gerry Cheevers’ mask is famous because he painted stitches on it to show where he would have been cut if he wasn’t wearing it. The stitch mask became his signature look and a symbol of toughness and resilience.
3. How many Stanley Cups did Gerry Cheevers win?
Gerry Cheevers won two Stanley Cups in his career, both with the Boston Bruins in 1970 and 1972.
4. What other teams did Gerry Cheevers play for besides the Boston Bruins?
In addition to the Boston Bruins, Gerry Cheevers also played for the Cleveland Crusaders in the 1970s.
5. Was Gerry Cheevers successful as a coach?
Gerry Cheevers had some success as a coach for the Boston Bruins and the Hartford Whalers but he is more famous for his career as a player.
6. What other awards did Gerry Cheevers win besides the Stanley Cup?
Gerry Cheevers won the Vezina Trophy in 1972 and was a two-time NHL All-Star (in the 1968-69 and 1971-72 seasons).
7. When was Gerry Cheevers inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame?
Gerry Cheevers was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1985, along with fellow legends Gordie Howe and Jean Beliveau.
Conclusion
Gerry Cheevers was a true legend of the game of hockey. He embodied grit, resilience, and skill on and off the ice. His legacy lives on through his goalie mask and his contributions to the sport. Cheevers’ impact on the game will never be forgotten, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest goaltenders to ever grace the ice. As we celebrate his life and career, let us be inspired by his determination and passion for the game.