Have you ever wondered about the age of Bobby Hull – one of the most talented and influential hockey players in history? Bobby Hull, known as “The Golden Jet,” had a remarkable career and made a significant impact on the sport of hockey.
Born in Pointe Anne, Ontario, Canada, Bobby Hull began his life on January 3, 193He grew up in a large family with six siblings, and his love for hockey started at a young age.
During his career, Hull set numerous records and achieved numerous awards, becoming a role model for many aspiring hockey players. But what happened to Bobby Hull after his retirement? Where is he now?
If you’re a fan of hockey, you won’t want to miss this exciting article! Keep reading to discover more about Bobby Hull’s early life, remarkable career, achievements and awards, and his impact on the sport of hockey.
Table of Contents
The Early Life of Bobby Hull
Bobby Hull, born on January 3, 1939, in Pointe Anne, Ontario, Canada, was the youngest of 11 children. His family lived near Kingston, Ontario, and his father worked in the Kingston Penitentiary. Bobby grew up in a rough-and-tumble neighborhood, where he and his siblings often played outdoor sports. At an early age, Bobby showed a natural talent for skating and hockey.
Despite his love for the sport, Bobby faced numerous obstacles during his early life. His family struggled to make ends meet, and Bobby was forced to leave school at a young age to help support them. He worked odd jobs, including selling newspapers and delivering milk, to help make ends meet.
However, Bobby’s passion for hockey never waned. He played for several local teams before catching the eye of the Chicago Blackhawks, who signed him to his first professional contract in 195It was the beginning of a remarkable career that would see him become one of the greatest players in hockey history.
Despite his success, Bobby never forgot his roots. He remained committed to his family and his community throughout his life, and his dedication to the sport of hockey inspired countless young players to follow in his footsteps.
The Early Life of Bobby Hull
Family and Childhood
Bobby Hull was born on January 3, 1939, in Pointe Anne, Ontario, Canada. His father, Robert Hull Sr., was a mechanic, and his mother, Jean Hull, was a homemaker. Bobby was the second of 11 children in the family, with five brothers and five sisters. Growing up, the Hull family was known for their love of hockey, and all of the children played the sport.
Despite coming from a large family, the Hulls struggled financially. They moved frequently in search of better opportunities, and Bobby attended many different schools throughout his childhood. Despite the challenges, he was able to continue playing hockey and develop his skills, which would eventually lead him to a successful career in the sport.
Bobby’s childhood was also marked by tragedy. When he was 12 years old, his younger brother Dennis died from meningitis. The loss had a profound impact on Bobby and his family, and it was a difficult time for them.
Despite these challenges, Bobby remained focused on hockey and continued to work hard to pursue his dreams. His determination and talent would eventually lead him to become one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Bobby Hull’s first hockey game was a memorable one. At just five years old, he stepped onto the ice and instantly fell in love with the sport. His father, a former professional hockey player, encouraged him to pursue the game, and Bobby’s talent quickly became apparent.
By age 12, Bobby was playing for his hometown team in Pointe Anne, Ontario. His speed and agility on the ice caught the attention of scouts, and he was soon invited to play for the Belleville McFarlands.
It was during his time with the McFarlands that Bobby’s reputation as a skilled and powerful player began to grow. His fierce competitiveness and hard-hitting style of play earned him the nickname “The Golden Jet” and made him a fan favorite.
Bobby’s first professional game was in 1957, when he played for the Chicago Blackhawks. He scored his first goal in his second game, and his talent and determination soon made him a star player in the NHL.
Bobby Hull’s Remarkable Hockey Career
Golden Jet’s Debut: Bobby Hull began his professional hockey career with the Chicago Blackhawks in 195He quickly made a name for himself as one of the most talented players in the league, earning the nickname “The Golden Jet.
Stanley Cup Win: Hull led the Blackhawks to their first Stanley Cup championship in 23 years in 196He scored three goals in the final game of the series, cementing his place as one of the greatest players in Blackhawks history.
WHA Years: In 1972, Hull signed with the World Hockey Association’s Winnipeg Jets for a then-record-breaking $1 million contract. He played there for seven seasons, leading the Jets to two Avco Cup championships and earning two league MVP awards.
Scoring Records: Hull set numerous scoring records during his career, including becoming the first player in NHL history to score more than 50 goals in a single season. He retired as the NHL’s all-time leading scorer, with 610 goals and 1,170 points.
Hall of Fame Induction: Hull was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
After playing for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Winnipeg Jets of the WHA, Bobby Hull joined the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets in 197In his first season, Hull scored 51 goals and helped lead the Jets to the Avco Cup championship. Over the course of his NHL career, Hull would play for the Jets and the Hartford Whalers.
Despite playing in the NHL for only a portion of his career, Hull was named to the NHL’s First All-Star Team ten times, won the Hart Trophy twice as the league’s Most Valuable Player, and won the Art Ross Trophy three times as the league’s leading scorer. Hull’s 610 NHL goals ranks him 15th on the all-time list.
Hull retired from the NHL in 1980, but continued to play for the minor league team Belleville Bulls for a few more years. He also played in two old-timer games in 1983 and 1984.
Despite not playing in the NHL for his entire career, Hull’s incredible talent and achievements secured his place as one of the greatest hockey players of all time.
After his playing career, Hull became a successful businessman and worked as a television commentator for both NHL and WHA games. He also continued to be involved in the hockey world through charity work and coaching young players.
Bobby Hull’s Achievements and Awards
Art Ross Trophy: Hull won the Art Ross Trophy three times in his career, which is awarded to the player with the most points in a season.
Hart Memorial Trophy: In 1965, Hull won the Hart Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the most valuable player in the NHL.
Stanley Cup: Hull won the Stanley Cup twice in his career, in 1961 with the Chicago Blackhawks and in 1972 with the Winnipeg Jets of the WHA.
Canada Cup: Hull was a member of the Canadian team that won the first-ever Canada Cup in 1976, where he played alongside fellow legends like Wayne Gretzky and Guy Lafleur.
Hull’s Induction into the Hall of Fame
Bobby Hull’s remarkable career earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame. In 1983, Hull was inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside fellow legends like Gordie Howe and Jean Beliveau.
The induction ceremony recognized Hull’s outstanding contributions to the sport, including his impressive goal-scoring abilities and his impact on the game. He remains one of the most influential players in the history of hockey, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of players.
Hull’s induction into the Hall of Fame was a well-deserved honor and a testament to his incredible career. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever grace the ice.
Today, Hull’s name is synonymous with hockey greatness, and his impact on the sport will continue to be felt for generations to come. His induction into the Hall of Fame serves as a reminder of his contributions to the game and the enduring legacy he has left behind.
Bobby Hull’s Retirement and Later Life
After retiring from professional hockey, Bobby Hull remained involved in the sport, becoming a coach and commentator. He also became a successful businessman, opening a chain of hockey schools across North America.
Despite his successes off the ice, Hull’s personal life was not without controversy. In 1970, he was sued for divorce by his wife Joanne, who claimed he had committed adultery with her sister. The scandal tarnished his reputation and caused him to lose several endorsement deals.
In later years, Hull became a vocal advocate for retired NHL players, pushing for better benefits and support for those who had suffered from the physical toll of playing the game. He also continued to make public appearances and remained a beloved figure among hockey fans.
Today, at the age of 82, Bobby Hull is widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players of all time. His speed, skill, and determination on the ice paved the way for future generations of players, and his legacy continues to inspire young athletes around the world.
If you’re a fan of hockey or just interested in learning more about one of the sport’s greatest icons, be sure to check out our other articles on Bobby Hull and the history of the NHL.
Hull’s Life after Retirement
Entrepreneurship: After retiring from hockey, Bobby Hull went into business, starting a number of successful ventures, including a travel agency, an insurance company, and a restaurant. He also worked as a spokesperson for various companies, such as Sears and Hires Root Beer.
Coaching and Broadcasting: In addition to his business ventures, Hull also dabbled in coaching and broadcasting. He served as a coach for the Winnipeg Jets in the WHA and as a color commentator for the Chicago Blackhawks.
Charitable Work: Hull has also been involved in various charitable organizations throughout his life, including the Special Olympics and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Legacy: Bobby Hull’s impact on the game of hockey is undeniable. He was a pioneer in the sport, revolutionizing the way players shoot the puck and helping to popularize the game in the United States. Today, he is considered one of the greatest players to ever lace up a pair of skates.
Personal Life: Hull has been married three times and has five children. He has been open about his struggles with alcoholism and has credited his faith with helping him overcome his addiction.
Hull’s Business Ventures
After retiring from hockey, Bobby Hull became involved in several business ventures. In 1972, he opened the Bobby Hull Sports Complex in his hometown of Pointe Anne, Ontario, which included an ice rink, swimming pool, and fitness center. He also started a sporting goods company called Hull-Oakes Stick Company, which produced hockey sticks made from hickory wood. Additionally, Hull became involved in the restaurant business, owning several restaurants in Canada and the United States.
In the mid-1980s, Hull and former NHL player Stan Mikita opened a chain of doughnut shops called Hull and Mikita’s. The chain eventually grew to 15 locations before being sold to Dunkin’ Donuts. In 1996, Hull opened Bobby Hull’s Tavern in Chicago, which became a popular destination for sports fans.
While some of Hull’s business ventures were successful, others were not. The sporting goods company, for example, struggled to compete with larger manufacturers, and Hull eventually sold it. Despite some setbacks, Hull’s entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to take risks helped him to achieve success in both his hockey career and his post-playing ventures.
Hull’s Health Issues
Bobby Hull suffered several health issues after retirement. He had a hip replacement surgery in 1996, and in 2002, he underwent a major brain surgery to remove a tumor. Unfortunately, he experienced some complications following the surgery and had to relearn how to walk and talk.
Later on, Hull also suffered a stroke in 2015, which left him partially paralyzed on his left side. Despite these setbacks, he has remained positive and continued to live an active lifestyle. He has even participated in charity events to raise awareness for stroke prevention.
Hull’s health issues have served as a reminder of the toll that playing professional sports can take on an athlete’s body. However, he remains a beloved figure in the hockey world and his contributions to the sport will not be forgotten.
The Impact of Bobby Hull on Hockey
Revolutionizing the game: Bobby Hull’s incredible speed and powerful slapshot changed the way the game of hockey was played forever. He was one of the first players to truly utilize the slapshot, and his incredible success with it inspired other players to try it out themselves.
Inspiring future players: Hull’s success and impact on the game inspired countless young players to take up hockey and try to emulate his style of play. His legacy can be seen in the countless players who have followed in his footsteps and continue to play with the same passion and determination that he did.
Legendary status: Bobby Hull’s impact on the game of hockey cannot be overstated. He remains one of the most iconic players in the history of the sport and his legacy will continue to inspire players and fans for generations to come. His remarkable achievements and dedication to the game will always be remembered as a defining moment in hockey history.
Hull’s Influence on the Game
Revolutionary Style: Bobby Hull’s playing style revolutionized the game of hockey. He was known for his speed, agility, and powerful slap shot, which made him a formidable opponent on the ice.
Impact on Scoring: Hull’s success as a scorer had a profound impact on the game. He became the first player to score more than 50 goals in a single season, which paved the way for other players to achieve this milestone.
Legacy: Bobby Hull’s legacy has had a lasting impact on the sport. His contributions to the game have earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame, and he continues to be recognized as one of the greatest players of all time.
Hull’s Legacy Today
Decades after his retirement, Bobby Hull’s impact on the game of hockey can still be felt today. His contributions both on and off the ice have solidified his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
One of Hull’s most significant legacies is his role in popularizing the slapshot. He was known for his powerful and accurate shot, which inspired countless players to develop their own. Today, the slapshot is a staple in the game of hockey, and Hull is often credited with its widespread adoption.
In addition to his influence on the ice, Hull’s charitable work and community involvement have also left a lasting impact. He has been involved in numerous charitable organizations throughout his life and continues to support causes he believes in today.
Where is Bobby Hull Now?
Bobby Hull currently resides in Florida with his wife and enjoys playing golf in his free time. Despite his age, he continues to make public appearances and attend hockey events.
Although he faced some criticism in the past for controversial comments, Hull remains a beloved figure in the hockey world and is widely respected for his contributions to the game.
Today, Hull’s legacy lives on through his influence on hockey and the impact he made on the sport during his playing days. His legendary status continues to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.
Hull’s Current Whereabouts
As of now, Bobby Hull is enjoying his retirement in his hometown of Pointe Anne, Ontario, Canada.
Despite being out of the public eye, Hull still remains involved in the sport of hockey. He has been known to attend various NHL events and functions, as well as mentor young players.
In recent years, Hull has also been recognized for his contributions to the game of hockey. In 2017, he was inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, and in 2019, he was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history by the NHL.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bobby Hull’s birth year and how does it impact his age?
Bobby Hull was born on January 3, 1939, which makes him currently 84 years old as of 202Hull’s birth year places him in a generation of hockey players that played during a very different era compared to modern-day hockey. As a result, Hull’s style of play may be viewed differently compared to how it would be viewed if he played in today’s NHL.
How long was Bobby Hull’s hockey career and what were some of his notable achievements?
Bobby Hull’s hockey career spanned 23 years, from 1957 to 1980, during which he played in both the NHL and WHA. He was a prolific scorer, with 610 goals and 560 assists in 1063 NHL games, and he won the Hart Trophy twice as the NHL’s Most Valuable Player. Hull was also a 10-time All-Star and won a Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks in 1961.
What was Bobby Hull’s impact on hockey and how does it continue to be felt today?
Bobby Hull revolutionized the game of hockey with his unique combination of speed, strength, and scoring ability. His powerful slapshot was a game-changer, and he was one of the first players to incorporate off-ice training and conditioning into his routine. Hull’s influence is still felt in today’s NHL, as many players continue to emulate his style of play and his approach to fitness and training.
What controversies has Bobby Hull been involved in throughout his life and career?
Bobby Hull has been involved in several controversies throughout his life and career, including accusations of domestic abuse and racially insensitive remarks. In 2017, Hull was removed as an ambassador for the Blackhawks after making controversial statements about U.S. President Donald Trump. These controversies have tarnished Hull’s legacy to some extent and raised questions about his suitability as a role model for young hockey players.
How has Bobby Hull’s personal life influenced his legacy as a hockey player?
Bobby Hull’s personal life has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. He was married three times and had five children, including Brett Hull, who went on to become a Hockey Hall of Famer in his own right. However, Hull’s reputation has been marred by allegations of domestic abuse and infidelity. While his accomplishments on the ice are undeniable, these personal issues have raised questions about his character and influenced how he is perceived by fans and the wider hockey community.