Don Cherry's Hockey Stories And Stuff
Don Cherry is one of the most well-known personalities in the world of hockey. He is a former NHL coach and player, but is most famous for his work as an analyst and commentator on Hockey Night in Canada. Cherry has been a fixture on Canadian television since the 1980s, and is known for his outspoken opinions, colourful suits, and love of old-time hockey. In this article, we will take a closer look at Don Cherry's hockey stories and stuff.
Early Life and Career
Don Cherry was born in Kingston, Ontario in 1934. He grew up playing hockey on the streets of his neighbourhood, and eventually became a talented junior player. After a brief stint in the minor leagues, Cherry began coaching in the 1970s. He worked his way up through the ranks, eventually landing a job with the Boston Bruins in 1974. Cherry quickly gained a reputation as a tough, no-nonsense coach who demanded a lot from his players.
Hockey Night in Canada
In the 1980s, Don Cherry began appearing on Hockey Night in Canada as a commentator. He quickly became a fan favourite, thanks to his colourful personality and unvarnished opinions. Cherry was never afraid to speak his mind, and his rants about various aspects of the game became legendary. He was also known for his outlandish suits, which became a signature of his on-air persona.
Old Time Hockey
One of the things that Don Cherry is most famous for is his love of old-time hockey. Cherry believes that the game has become too soft in recent years, and he often laments the decline of physical play and fighting. He has also been critical of the trend towards European-style hockey, which he feels is less exciting than the North American game. Cherry's views have made him controversial at times, but he remains a beloved figure among many hockey fans.
Grudges and Controversies
Don Cherry is known to hold grudges, and has been involved in several controversies over the years. In the 1980s, he famously clashed with Swedish player Tomas Sandstrom, whom he accused of diving. More recently, Cherry has been critical of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and has taken shots at various players and coaches. He has also been accused of making insensitive and politically incorrect comments on air, which has led to calls for his resignation.
Legacy
Love him or hate him, there's no denying the impact that Don Cherry has had on the world of hockey. He has been a fixture on Canadian television for over 30 years, and has become an icon in the sport. Cherry's outspoken opinions and colourful personality have made him one of the most recognizable figures in hockey, and he has inspired countless imitators and parodies over the years. Whether you agree with his views or not, there's no denying that Don Cherry is a hockey legend.
Conclusion
Don Cherry's hockey stories and stuff are an essential part of the fabric of Canadian hockey culture. His love of old-time hockey, his grudges and controversies, and his larger-than-life personality have made him a household name in Canada and beyond. Whether you love him or hate him, there's no denying the impact that Don Cherry has had on the sport of hockey. And as long as there's hockey, there will always be a place for Don Cherry's unique voice and perspective.