*This week a new feature has been added to the column a player spotlight. Each week at the end of the article, you can find a quick summary on a Canadian player. I hope you enjoy it!*
We all know what the season of hockey concludes with the Stanley Cup. Purchased by Lord Stanley in 1892, the cup originally measured only 7 1/2 inches high by 11 1/2inches across, a huge difference from today’s cup. It was, under Lord Stanley’s terms, to be awarded to the team who was victorious after a series of championship games (what we now call the playoffs). The Stanley Cup has become one of the most sought-after awards in the sporting industry and the ultimate victory for a player.
However, there are many other awards and trophies that can be won in honour of good hockey playing. To begin with, there is the Calder Memorial Trophy, which is given to the Rookie of the Year. This is the rookie player who has the most points at the end of the player’s first National Hockey League (NHL) season. Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals team was last year’s winner. The top goal scorer in the league receives the Maurice Richard Trophy, and the top goalie the Vezina Trophy. One of the most coveted awards is the Hart Memorial Trophy, given to the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the NHL. The present winner (from the 2005/2006 season) is San Jose’s Joe Thornton.
Many other trophies are given out for such achievements as: Top Defenceman, MVP of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and Top Point Scorer. The coach can also receive an award for good coaching, called the Jack Adams Award. There are also numerous other trophies given for things from humanitarian efforts through to leadership and gentlemanly conduct.
Although all these awards are available to be won, nothing beats winning the Stanley Cup. It is the dream of all hockey players to stand on the red carpet, hold that shiny silver cup above their heads, and listen to their fans cheer.
This week’s instalment of the player spotlight is Jarome Ignila with the Calgary Flames. The following information is derived from the Calgary Flames website.
Jarome Iginla – Calgary Flames
Height: 6 foot 1 inch
Weight: 204 pounds
Position: Right Wing
Shoots: Right
Born in: Edmonton, Alberta
Born on: January 7, 1977
Acquired from: Dallas Stars on December 19, 1995
“¢ 2005/2006 highlights: One of only four Flames to appear in all 82 games leading the team with 67 points.
“¢ 1st on team in points, goals, PP goals, shots, 2nd in assists, 2nd in PP points and T-3rd in GW goals Scored his 35th goal and added an assist on Apr. 17 at ANA.
“¢ Posted his 500th NHL career PIM on Apr. 3 vs. DET.
“¢ Played in his 700th career game on Apr. 1 at EDM.
“¢ Scored the GW/PP/penalty shot goal while adding two assists and a fight (to complete the ‘Gordie Howe Hat Trick’) on Nov. 10 at PHX – was also his first successful penalty shot goal.
“¢ Averaged 21:41 of ice-time.
