Sports History

Born June 11, 1895 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, was Hockey Hall of Fame Center Frank Fredrickson. TO describe Fredrickson in a few words; he was war hero, Stanley Cup winner, Hockey Hall of Famer. Frank was significant to both the amateur and professional ice hockey as it evolved. Fredrickson skated as a center for the Winnipeg Falcons, the amateur Canadian team which won the Olympic gold medal in 1920. Fredrickson then joined the Victoria Aristocrats/Victoria Cougars and helped them win the Stanley Cup in 1925. That team was the last non-NHL squad to win Lord Stanley's Cup. He was later a famous aviator helping to establish Iceland's first airline.

Born November 29, 1888, in Silver Mountain, Ontario, was Hockey Hall of Fame Forward Jack Walker. Walker skated in early professional hockey for Oakland Sheiks, Hollywood Stars, Seattle Eskimos, Detroit Cougars, Victoria Cougars, Seattle Metropolitans, Moncton Victorias, Toronto Blueshirts, and the Port Arthur Lake City. This legend is one of only 11 pro hockey players since the Stanley Cup's existed to win the trophy with three or more different teams.

Harry George "Hap" Holmes left an indelible mark on hockey history, not just for his longevity but for his remarkable achievement of winning the Stanley Cup with four different teams. Though statistics were less meticulously tracked in his era, his career trajectory paints a picture of a versatile and adaptable goaltender who played a crucial role in several championship runs.

Early Steps and Toronto Triumph: Holmes began his professional career in 1912 with the Toronto Blueshirts of the National Hockey Association (NHA). Despite missing games due to various reasons, he played a crucial role in their 1914 Stanley Cup victory, the first-ever for a Toronto-based team. This early success set the stage for a career characterized by resilience and adaptability.

League Hopping and Championship Pursuits: Following his Toronto stint, Holmes embarked on a journeyman phase, playing for the Montreal Canadiens, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Boston Bruins. While individual statistics aren't comprehensive, contemporary accounts acknowledge his talent and impact. He returned to Toronto in 1926 with the newly formed Toronto Maple Leafs, where he solidified his legacy by winning his second Stanley Cup in 1927.

Late Career Success and Final Chapter: After another stint with the Montreal Canadiens, Holmes found success with the Chicago Blackhawks, helping them lift the Stanley Cup in 1934. He capped off his incredible career with the New York Rangers, winning his fourth and final Stanley Cup in 1938. This feat remains unmatched, showcasing his adaptability and ability to thrive in different team environments.

Beyond the Wins: While statistics paint an incomplete picture, Holmes' contemporaries consistently praised his athleticism, calm demeanor, and ability to rise to the occasion in big games. He was known for his agility and butterfly technique, which was innovative for his era.

A Legacy Etched in History: Hap Holmes' career transcended individual accolades. He symbolized perseverance and adaptability, winning championships with four different teams across eras. His unique achievement and impact on the game earned him a well-deserved induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1972.

Remembered as:

-A four-time Stanley Cup champion with four different teams (Toronto Blueshirts, Toronto Maple Leafs, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers)

-A versatile and adaptable goaltender who thrived in different team environments

-A pioneer of the butterfly technique, known for his athleticism and calm demeanor

-A true winner and a legend in the history of hockey