Don Cherry's Rock Em Sock Em Hockey
For hockey enthusiasts around the world, Don Cherry’s “Rock Em Sock Em Hockey” series is a classic must-watch. The video series features highlights from NHL games, with an emphasis on the physical aspect of the game, and includes interviews with players, coaches, and referees. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and impact of this iconic series.
The Beginnings of “Rock Em Sock Em Hockey”
The first "Rock Em Sock Em Hockey" video was released in 1989, and it quickly became popular among hockey fans. The series was created by Don Cherry, a retired NHL player and well-known broadcaster in Canada. Cherry had a reputation for being opinionated and outspoken, and his passion for the physical aspect of hockey was evident in the videos.
Each video in the series featured highlights from the previous NHL season, showcasing the biggest hits, best goals, and other memorable moments. The videos also included interviews with players, coaches, and officials, providing fans with behind-the-scenes insights into the game.
The Impact of “Rock Em Sock Em Hockey”
“Rock Em Sock Em Hockey” quickly became a hit among fans, and it had a significant impact on the NHL. The series helped to popularize the physical aspect of the game, and many fans started to pay more attention to hits and fights than goals and assists.
The series also helped to make Don Cherry a household name in Canada and beyond. Cherry’s unique style, which included colorful suits and controversial opinions, made him a polarizing figure, but also one of the most recognizable broadcasters in the country.
The Evolution of “Rock Em Sock Em Hockey”
The “Rock Em Sock Em Hockey” series continued to be released annually, and it evolved over time. The videos started to include more commentary from Don Cherry, and he began to use the series as a platform to share his opinions on various issues related to the game.
Despite its popularity, the series was not without controversy. Some critics argued that it glorified violence and was a bad influence on young fans. Others praised the series for its entertaining and informative content.
The Legacy of “Rock Em Sock Em Hockey”
Today, the “Rock Em Sock Em Hockey” series is considered a classic in the hockey world. It helped to popularize the physical aspect of the game and turned Don Cherry into a beloved and controversial figure.
Although the series has not been released since 2013, it is still fondly remembered by fans around the world. For anyone who loves hockey, it is a must-watch.
