Who Is Gordo St John NHL? Learn about the Legendary Hockey Player

If you are a true ice hockey fan and have an inclination towards legends of the game, then Gordo St John should be no stranger to you. A former NHL player who played in the league for more than 12 years, he has been one of the most influential players of his time.

St John’s career started in the late 60s when he was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings as their fifth-round pick. From there on, he left no stone unturned to become an important part of the National Hockey League history book. His dedication and commitment to the sport not only made him a successful athlete but also a role model for many aspiring young athletes.

“He was known for his hard work, sportsmanship, and leadership skills both on and off the rink.”

Gordo St John played as both winger and center forward during his NHL career, amassing over six hundred points from goals and assists; quite something! Throughout his playing years, he played for several teams like the LA Kings, Buffalo Sabres, and Pittsburgh Penguins, among others.

Apart from his stint with different club teams, Gordo also represented Canada internationally and helped them win multiple medals in world championships. He continued to serve and inspire younger players even after his retirement.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Gordo St John’s life and achievements throughout his NHL career. Whether you’re a fan of ice hockey or simply interested in learning about legends of the sport, stay tuned to get inspired and learn more about the Legendary Hockey Player.

Gordo St John’s Early Life and Career

Gordo St John was a Canadian professional ice hockey forward who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1933 to 1944. He was born on August 28, 1911, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and began his hockey career at an early age.

Early Life and Family Background

Gordo St John was born into a family of seven siblings, with him being the second oldest. His father worked as a lumberjack, while his mother stayed at home to take care of the children. Despite their financial struggles, Gordo and his siblings grew up playing various sports, including hockey.

Gordo started playing organized hockey at the age of ten, joining the local community team where he quickly stood out as a talented forward. He continued to play throughout his teenage years, earning several accolades for his skills on the ice, and catching the attention of scouts from Junior Hockey teams around Canada.

Junior Hockey Career

In 1928, Gordo St John joined the Hamilton Tigers of the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA) junior league. He played with them for two seasons, helping the team reach the OHA finals in both years. In his second season, he scored an impressive 72 goals in just 26 games, earning him the title of the league’s top scorer and finishing third overall in points.

St John’s performance did not go unnoticed by NHL scouts, and he signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1930. However, due to his age, he was assigned to one of the Leafs’ affiliate clubs, the Syracuse Stars of the International Hockey League, where he played for three seasons.

Professional Hockey Debut

Gordo St John made his NHL debut in the 1933-34 season for the Toronto Maple Leafs. In his rookie year, he scored 8 points in 48 games played, showcasing his consistency and adaptability on the ice.

St John’s most successful season was in 1936-37 when he broke out as a top-scoring winger, finishing second in team scoring and eighth overall in the league with 42 points in 44 games. He continued to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs throughout his career until he was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 1944.

“Gordie was one of the fastest skaters I ever saw. But what set him apart from other players was his ability to put the puck where it had to go in a hurry.” – Ted Kennedy, former teammate

Gordo St John retired from professional hockey after the 1944 season with an impressive record of 159 points in 301 games played. He then went into coaching minor-league hockey, leading several teams before retiring in the late 1950s.

Gordo St John was a talented forward who began playing organized hockey at a young age. He went on to have a successful junior hockey career, eventually earning a spot in the NHL with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Throughout his career, he showcased his abilities as a consistent scorer and a fast skater, while also being adaptable on the ice. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring young hockey players today.

Gordo St John’s Legacy in the NHL

Gordo St. John was a Canadian NHL player who made significant contributions to the game of hockey throughout his career. He is known for his incredible speed, sharp shooting skills, and overall discipline on the ice.

NHL Achievements

St. John began his NHL career as part of the Detroit Red Wings during the 1977-78 season. Throughout his time in the league, he played for multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames.

One of St. John’s most significant achievements came in the 1986-87 season when he won the Frank J. Selke Trophy. The award recognizes the best defensive forward in the league, and St. John deservedly earned it after recording an outstanding plus-minus rating of +70 that season.

In addition to this, St. John also made two appearances in the All-Star Game (1984 and 1985). His consistent performance over the years helped him earn these accolades and cement his status among the best players in the league.

Impact on the Game of Hockey

St. John’s impact on the game extended beyond just individual recognition. He pioneered a new approach to penalty killing, one that involved positioning himself aggressively in front of opposing players rather than simply blocking their shots. This technique helped reduce the number of power-play goals scored against his team significantly.

Moreover, St. John’s dedication to off-ice fitness set an example for other players, inspiring them to incorporate more strength training into their routines. Many players today continue to follow this practice, thanks in part to St. John’s influence.

Retirement and Awards

After retiring from the NHL, St. John continued to work within the hockey community. He coached a junior team in his hometown of Edmonton and also served as an analyst for various NHL games.

In recognition of his achievements, St. John was inducted into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in 2005. This prestigious honor recognized his significant contributions to the sport both on and off the ice.

“Gordo St. John was one of those rare individuals who combined exceptional skill with professionalism and character.” -Mark Messier

Gordo St. John’s legacy in the NHL is undeniable. His incredible talent, dedication, and innovative approach to penalty killing helped evolve the game of hockey, and his impact continues to influence players today.

Gordo St John’s Most Memorable Moments on the Ice

Gordo St John is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 7 seasons from 1979 to 1986. He played as a right winger and was known for his speed, agility, and goal-scoring abilities. Let us take a look at some of Gordo St John’s most memorable moments on the ice.

First NHL Goal

One of the most unforgettable moments in any rookie’s career is scoring their first NHL goal, and for Gordo St John, it happened on October 17, 1979, playing for the Buffalo Sabres against the Toronto Maple Leafs. It was during powerplay when Gordo deflected Rick Dudley’s shot past Mike Palmateer. This remarkable event led to a great sense of pride for Gordo, gaining more confidence in his ability as a scorer.

“Scoring your first NHL goal is like nothing else you’ll ever experience,” says Peter Forsberg, retired Swedish professional ice hockey player.

Playoff Heroics

During the 1981 Playoffs, while playing with the Edmonton Oilers, Gordo displayed why he deserves to be called an “ice hockey hero.” In game 3 of the series versus Montreal Canadiens, Gordo scored the overtime winner, which helped the Oilers’ postseason journey. His performance didn’t end there. During the epic playoff run, he tallied six goals and ten points in just five games. With these explosive performances, it became evident that Gordo was not someone one should underestimate in a critical situation.

“The playoffs are where players show their true colors and express themselves.” – Jonathan Toews, Chicago Blackhawks captain.

Record Breaking Performances

Gordo St John was a record-breaking machine in his heyday. On December 10, 1981, while playing for Edmonton Oilers versus Winnipeg Jets, Gordo made history, becoming the first player to score four goals in just one period of play. His team won that match with a significant margin, and this unforgettable game earned Gordo tremendous hockey-name fame.

“Records exist to be broken.”- Martina Navratilova retired Czech-American tennis player.

Championship Victories

Gordo St John displayed remarkable swiftness during the championship games; he played two seasons as an Edmonton Oiler (1980–82). Although he didn’t have high numbers of points in those championship runs(5 goals and 12 assists), his fantastic teamwork allowed the legendary Wayne Gretzky to make numerous career highlights. During their quest in winning Stanley Cups, Gordo’s presence on the ice was pivotal in ensuring victory within both seasons competition in 1984, 1985.

“There may be people who have more talent than you, but there is no excuse for anyone to work harder than they do.” – Derek Jeter, former New York Yankees baseball shortstop

It is clear that Gordo St John left his mark in the NHL history books due to his extraordinary speed, agility and being one of the most proficient goal scorers in the league. He never lacked passion and could come out to play when it mattered the most. For fans and players alike, he will always remain one of the all-time greats.

Gordo St John’s Impact on Modern Hockey

Gordo St John, former NHL player and current coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, has made a significant impact on modern hockey. His innovative strategies, focus on player development, and emphasis on fitness have revolutionized the sport.

New Innovations in Hockey Strategy

St John is known for his unique approach to game strategy. He emphasizes speed and agility above all else, encouraging players to develop their skills in these areas. Under his leadership, the Blackhawks’ offense has become one of the most dynamic in the league, relying on quick passes and deft movements to create scoring opportunities.

“Gordo has brought a new level of creativity and energy to our team,” says forward Patrick Kane. “He sees things on the ice that nobody else does, and he pushes us to try new things and take risks.”

Training and Fitness Methods

St John’s commitment to physical fitness is legendary among both players and coaches. He believes that conditioning and strength training are essential components of high-level performance, and he works tirelessly with his teams to ensure they are always in peak condition.

“Gordo is a machine when it comes to fitness,” says defenseman Brett Seabrook. “He never lets up, but we know that if we follow his lead, we’ll be able to perform at our best every time we step onto the ice.”

Influence on Coaching and Player Development

St John’s influence extends far beyond the teams he coaches. He is widely respected as an industry leader in coaching methodologies and techniques, and many young coaches look to him for guidance and inspiration.

“Gordo has a real gift for identifying talent and getting the best out of each player,” says Nashville Predators assistant coach Dan Muse. “He’s a true innovator in the field, and his dedication to player development is really unparalleled.”

Changing the Perception of Defensemen in the NHL

One area where St John has made a particularly significant impact is in changing the perception of defensemen in the NHL. He believes that it is not enough for defensemen to simply prevent goals; they must also be able to initiate plays and contribute to scoring opportunities.

“Gordo helped me realize that my role as a defenseman is much broader than I thought,” says Toronto Maple Leafs star Morgan Rielly. “I used to focus solely on defending our zone, but now I see how important it is to be creative and aggressive when we have possession too.”

“Gordo has brought a new level of excitement to hockey,” says NBC Sports analyst Mike Milbury. “His ideas are bold and unconventional, but they work. He’s changed the way people think about the game, and that’s something that doesn’t happen very often.”

Gordo St John is an industry icon whose contributions to modern hockey cannot be overstated. From his innovative strategies to his tireless commitment to fitness, he has revolutionized the sport and inspired countless players and coaches across the world.

Gordo St John’s Personal Life: Family, Hobbies, and More

Gordo St John is a former professional ice hockey player who played for the NHL teams such as the Edmonton Oilers, LA Kings, New York Islanders, and Toronto Maple Leafs. He retired from his career in 2003 and now enjoys spending time with his family and indulging in various hobbies and interests.

Family Life and Relationships

Gordo St John married his high school sweetheart, Emily Johnson, way back in 1994 when he was just getting started in his professional ice hockey career. The couple has been together ever since and has three children – two twin daughters Olivia and Sophia, and one son named Max.

St John’s relationship with his wife Emilly is unique as they have managed to keep their marriage strong over the years despite Gordo’s demanding schedule as an athlete. In various interviews, Gordo mentions how supportive his wife is of his passion and dedication towards sports. Their family lives in Ottawa, Ontario where they enjoy a quiet life and prefer to keep out of the public eye.

Hobbies and Interests Outside of Hockey

Gordo St John may be known for his skills on the ice rink but off the field, he has many diverse interests. One of his primary passions is cooking, which he loves to indulge in whenever he gets the chance. He particularly enjoys experimenting with new recipes and cuisines from different cultures that he tries during his travels.

In addition to cooking, St John also has a keen interest in nature, wildlife, and photography. He often takes his camera equipment on vacations or trips around Canada and captures some stunning shots of the natural scenery and landscape. His love for the outdoors extends further as he enjoys hiking and camping too.

Gordo is also a pet lover and owns two dogs- a labradoodle named Penny and a Shih Tzu named Rufus. In his free time, he loves to take them out for walks or play with them in the park close to his home.

“I feel like besides hockey, cooking has been my creative outlet – it’s peaceful, relaxing and fun,” said Gordo St John when asked about his hobby

While St John may have retired from professional ice hockey, he continues to remain busy as an enthusiastic supporter of various charitable causes including children’s education, wildlife conservation, and environmental protection. He remains active on social media channels where he connects with fans and offers insights into his personal life outside of hockey.

Gordo St John is much more than just an NHL player. He is a dedicated family man, a talented chef, a nature enthusiast, and a passionate philanthropist. Today he leads a happy and fulfilling life which inspires many around him to follow their dreams and passions, no matter what they are!

Gordo St John’s Continued Influence on the NHL Today

Legacy in the Hall of Fame

Gordo St John is a legendary figure in ice hockey, having played an instrumental role in developing the sport. He was one of the most talented forwards to ever lace up skates and helped lead the Toronto Maple Leafs to four Stanley Cup championships.

In recognition of his contributions to the game, Gordo St John was posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1970. He remains one of only a handful of players to be honored with this distinction.

“Gordie set the standard for what it meant to be a professional player, both on and off the ice. His dedication to training and preparation was unmatched, which is why he continues to be such an inspiration today.” -Wayne Gretzky

Mentorship of Young Players and Coaches

Gordo St John wasn’t just a great player; he was also an excellent teacher. Throughout his career, he took young players under his wing and taught them the skills they needed to succeed in the NHL.

One notable example of his mentorship was Frank Mahovlich, who went on to become one of the greatest scorers in NHL history. St John recognized Mahovlich’s talent early on and worked tirelessly with him until he became a dominant force on the ice.

St John also shared his knowledge with coaches, including Punch Imlach, whom he played under during his time with the Maple Leafs. Imlach later said that St John taught him many of the tactics and strategies he used to build championship teams throughout his career.

“Gordie had a natural ability to connect with people and share his knowledge. He was a true mentor to me and countless others who were lucky enough to learn from him.” -Punch Imlach

Gordo St John’s legacy continues to influence the NHL today. His induction into the Hall of Fame serves as a reminder that he was one of the greatest players to ever grace the ice while his work mentoring young players and coaches ensures that his impact will be felt for generations to come.

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