Cold War on Ice: The NHL versus the Soviet Union in Hockey's Super Series '76

The Super Series 76 was a groundbreaking hockey event between eight National Hockey League clubs and two touring teams from the USSR. It was a clash of political ideologies on North American ice surfaces, with the top pro teams meeting the best amateurs from the Soviet Elite League. The series was intense and focused on eight captivating games in New York, Pittsburgh, Montreal, Buffalo, Boston, Chicago, Long Island, and Philadelphia. Two of these contests are still widely discussed today, one for being the greatest hockey game ever played.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Between December 28, 1975, and January 11, 1976, a historic hockey event unfolded: Super Series '76. Eight National Hockey League clubs, each hosting a single exhibition game, faced off against two touring teams from the USSR: the Central Red Army or the Wings of the Soviet. While the event was officially deemed non-competitive, keen hockey enthusiasts recognized that a clash of political ideologies was taking place on the North American ice surfaces. The pinnacle of professional hockey would finally meet the finest amateurs from the Soviet Elite League. The reputations of both the NHL and Soviet hockey were at stake. Canadians, having witnessed the prowess of Soviet hockey stars in the 1972 and 1974 Summit Series, were well aware of their strength. However, for many Americans, the talents of the exotic Eastern Bloc visitors presented a remarkable revelation.

This book delves into the history of the intense Canada-USSR hockey rivalry preceding Super Series '76, with a particular focus on the eight captivating games that took place in New York, Pittsburgh, Montreal, Buffalo, Boston, Chicago, Long Island, and Philadelphia. Among these contests, two stand out for vastly different reasons. One may be considered the greatest hockey game ever played.

The Super Series '76 marked a significant moment in the history of international hockey, as it brought together the best of both worlds on the ice. The games showcased the skill, athleticism, and passion of the players, while also serving as a platform for political dialogue and cultural exchange. The rivalry between Canada and the USSR continued to shape the sport in the years to come, and the legacy of Super Series '76 remains a testament to the power of sports to bridge divides and bring people together.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476693873