Alex Kaleta facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alex Kaleta |
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| Born | November 29, 1919 Canmore, AB, CAN |
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| Died | July 9, 1987 (aged 67) | ||
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) | ||
| Weight | 160 lb (73 kg; 11 st 6 lb) | ||
| Position | Centre | ||
| Shot | Left | ||
| Played for | Chicago Black Hawks New York Rangers |
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| Playing career | 1941–1955 | ||
Alexander "Killer" Kaleta (born November 29, 1919 – died July 9, 1987) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player. He was a left winger, which means he played on the left side of the ice. Kaleta played for seven seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL). He was part of the Chicago Black Hawks and New York Rangers teams.
Kaleta is famous for a fun story that led to the "hat trick" tradition in hockey. A hat trick is when a player scores three goals in one game.
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The Story of the Hat Trick
How it Started
The story goes that Alexander Kaleta was in Toronto one day. He went into a shop because he wanted to buy a new hat. He found a hat he really liked, but he didn't have enough money to buy it.
The shop owner saw how much Kaleta liked the hat. He decided to make a special deal with him. The owner told Kaleta that if he could score three goals in his next hockey game, he would give him the hat for free!
Kaleta's Big Game
Kaleta agreed to the challenge. In his very next game, he played against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He didn't just score three goals; he scored four goals! This amazing performance earned him the hat for free.
This exciting event helped start the tradition of the "hat trick" in hockey. Today, when a player scores three goals in a single game, fans often throw their hats onto the ice to celebrate. It's a way to honor the player's great achievement.
Kaleta's Hockey Career
Alexander Kaleta played as a left winger. This position is important for scoring goals and helping the team attack. He played for two well-known teams in the NHL.
Playing for the Black Hawks
Kaleta started his NHL career with the Chicago Black Hawks. He played several seasons with them. During his time with the Black Hawks, he showed his skill as a goal-scorer.
Time with the Rangers
Later in his career, Kaleta also played for the New York Rangers. He continued to be a strong player for his team. His career in the NHL lasted from 1941 to 1955.
Alexander Kaleta is remembered not just for his playing, but for his special connection to one of hockey's most exciting traditions.
- Alex Kaleta's career stats at The Internet Hockey Database
