1972: The Year That Changed Hockey Forever

The Summit Series: A Clash of Titans

1972: The Series That Changed Hockey Forever

by Scott Morrison

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	138023 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	342 pages

FREE

The Summit Series was a legendary eight-game hockey series played between Canada and the Soviet Union in September 1972. It marked the first time that the two hockey superpowers had ever officially met on the ice.

Canada's team was composed of professional players, while the Soviet team was made up of elite amateurs. The series was fiercely competitive, with both teams winning four games apiece. However, it was the Soviets who ultimately took the series, winning the final game 3-2.

The Summit Series had a profound impact on hockey in Canada. It shattered the myth of Soviet invincibility and inspired a new generation of Canadian hockey players. It also paved the way for future international hockey competitions, including the World Cup of Hockey and the Olympics.

The World Hockey Association: A New Era of Competition

In 1972, the World Hockey Association (WHA) was founded as a rival to the NHL. The WHA offered higher salaries to players and introduced new rules, such as the slap shot and the center line pass, which made the game faster and more exciting.

The WHA initially struggled to compete with the NHL, but it gradually gained popularity. Several star players, including Bobby Hull, Gordie Howe, and Wayne Gretzky, jumped to the WHA. The WHA also helped to develop new markets for hockey, particularly in the United States.

The WHA eventually merged with the NHL in 1979, but it left a lasting impact on hockey. The WHA's innovations helped to make the game more fan-friendly and paved the way for the modern era of hockey.

Bobby Orr: The Airborne Revolution

Bobby Orr was one of the most dominant hockey players of all time. He was known for his incredible skating, puck-handling, and offensive skills. In 1972, Orr revolutionized the game of hockey by popularizing the airborne goal.

Orr's airborne goals were remarkable for their athleticism and grace. He would often jump into the air, soar over the defenders, and score goals from impossible angles. Orr's airborne goals inspired a new generation of hockey players to push the boundaries of the game.

New NHL Rules: Safety First

In 1972, the NHL implemented a number of new rules designed to improve player safety. These rules included:

* The use of face masks * The banning of checking from behind * The reduction of fighting penalties

These rules helped to make hockey a safer game for players and paved the way for the modern era of hockey.

1972 was a pivotal year for hockey. The Summit Series, the World Hockey Association, Bobby Orr's airborne revolution, and the new NHL rules all had a profound impact on the sport. These changes made hockey more competitive, exciting, and safer, and paved the way for the modern era of hockey.

1972: The Series That Changed Hockey Forever

by Scott Morrison

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	138023 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	342 pages

FREE