St Louis Amateur Hockey Hall Of Fame
If you're a fan of ice hockey, you may be familiar with the St. Louis Blues, the city's professional hockey team. But did you know that St. Louis is also home to a thriving amateur hockey community? And, to celebrate the achievements of amateur ice hockey players in the area, the St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame was established.
The History of St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame
The St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame was founded in 2017 to honor the city's amateur hockey players, coaches, referees, and others who have made significant contributions to the sport. The Hall of Fame was the brainchild of longtime St. Louis hockey enthusiasts Pat Kelly and Larry Thatcher, who recognized the need to recognize and celebrate St. Louis's rich hockey legacy.
Since its founding, the Hall of Fame has inducted 12 individuals and five teams into its ranks. Each year, a new class of honorees is inducted in a ceremony that celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of these individuals and teams.
Criteria for Induction
To be considered for induction into the St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame, nominees must meet certain criteria. Individuals must have made significant contributions to the sport of amateur hockey in St. Louis as a player, coach, referee, or administrator. They must also have demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship and character, both on and off the ice. Teams must have achieved significant milestones, such as winning national or international championships, or advancing to the highest levels of competition.
Notable Inductees
Over the years, the St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame has inducted a number of notable individuals and teams. Some of the most notable inductees include:
- Bob Gassoff, a former defenseman for the St. Louis Blues and longtime coach and player in the amateur ranks
- Joe Mullen, a former NHL player and St. Louis native who won three Stanley Cup championships with the Pittsburgh Penguins
- Jackie Boller, a trailblazing female hockey player who helped establish women's hockey in St. Louis
- The 1965-66 Metro Jr. A Hockey team, which won the national championship
Visiting the St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame
The St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame is located at the Hardee's Iceplex in Chesterfield, Missouri. The Iceplex is home to several ice rinks and is used as a training facility for amateur hockey players of all ages.
The Hall of Fame itself is free to visit and is open to the public during regular Iceplex hours. Visitors can learn about the history of amateur hockey in St. Louis and view the plaques and memorabilia honoring the Hall of Fame inductees.
Conclusion
The St. Louis Amateur Hockey Hall of Fame is a testament to the rich hockey legacy of this Midwestern city. Through its annual inductions and educational exhibits, the Hall of Fame celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of St. Louis's amateur hockey players, coaches, referees, and teams, and inspires future generations to continue this proud tradition.
