Goaltenders Unmasked: Wild Tales of Hockey Goaltenders in the Era Before Masks

A fascinating and immersive chronicle of hockey's original maskless warriors, including Terry Sawchuk, Glenn Hall, and Jacques Plante, who endured broken bones, damaged organs, and psychological turmoil to protect their goals. This book explores how the goaltender position has changed throughout the decades, from ghoulish-looking creations to today's caged helmets with custom artwork.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: Triumph Books

A captivating and immersive chronicle of hockey's original maskless warriors, this book delves into the courageous tales of Terry Sawchuk, Glenn Hall, and Jacques Plante, the trailblazers who ventured into the icy arenas without the protection of facemasks. Over a span of 16 years in the National Hockey League, Sawchuk, Hall, and Plante endured a staggering 400 stitches on their faces, a testament to the high-speed collisions and slapshots that relentlessly targeted their skulls. Their unwavering dedication to the sport, despite the risks, is a testament to their elite status as goaltenders of their era.

Prior to the introduction of facemasks in the 1960s and 70s, these brave men, including Sawchuk, Hall, and Plante, fearlessly put their bodies on the line in the name of hockey. They bore the brunt of broken bones, damaged organs, and even psychological turmoil as they faced the dangers of the game head-on. In this meticulously researched work, Rob Vanstone sheds light on the stories of these intrepid warriors while exploring the evolution of the goaltender position throughout the decades.

As masks evolved from ghoulish-looking creations reminiscent of horror films to the modern-day caged helmets adorned with custom artwork, so did the body positioning and tactics of goalies. NHL regulations also underwent significant changes to accommodate the evolving safety standards.

Told with charm and verve, this book offers an essential portrait of a uniquely brutal and harrowing chapter in hockey history. It serves as a tribute to the bravery and resilience of these maskless warriors, who paved the way for the modern game we love today. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of hockey players and fans alike.

Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781637272169