Renowned hockey journalist Stan Fischler has been contributing a weekly scrapbook to NHL.com for a considerable period. Widely recognized as “The Hockey Maven,” he shares his amusing and insightful anecdotes with readers every Wednesday.
In the spirit of the festive holiday season, Fischler recounts the story of his first hockey stick, which he received as a Christmas gift exactly 80 years ago. Growing up in Williamsburg, Brooklyn during challenging times, Fischler reminisces about celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas with his family, despite financial difficulties.
Although Fischler received practical gifts for Hanukkah, he had his heart set on receiving a hockey stick for Christmas, an item he had never previously owned. Upon seeing an enticing advertisement in the 1943 Jim Hendy’s Hockey Guide featuring Rangers great Bill Cook, Fischler set his sights on acquiring the coveted hockey stick. With determination and resourcefulness, he managed to persuade his mother to finance his pursuit of the stick from the store, Alex Taylor’s on 42nd Street in Manhattan.
Armed with two dollars and the hockey guide, Fischler embarked on a nerve-wracking quest, hoping to find the desired hockey stick within his budget. Eventually arriving at the store, he was overwhelmed by the array of hockey sticks on display. To his relief, he discovered a Lovell hockey stick that perfectly matched his budget, and it turned out to be even cheaper than he had expected.
His elation was boundless as he triumphantly made his purchase and savored his victory. The hockey stick became his prized possession, accompanying him to the ice rinks and roller hockey teams for four memorable seasons.
Looking back, Fischler fondly recalls the wear and tear the hockey stick endured over the years, becoming a cherished memento of his love for the sport. Despite its tattered appearance, the hockey stick held immense sentimental value and served as a reminder of the best Christmas gift he had ever received.
Fischler’s heartwarming recollection of his first hockey stick encapsulates the essence of gratitude and the joy of receiving a cherished gift. It’s a tale of determination, perseverance, and unwavering love for the sport, which resonates with anyone who has ever cherished a special present.