Alex Shibicky facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alex Shibicky |
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Mac Colville, Neil Colville and Alex Shibicky, 1938
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| Born | May 19, 1914 Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada |
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| Died | July 9, 2005 (aged 91) South Surrey, British Columbia, Canada |
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| Height | 6 ft 0 in (183 cm) | ||
| Weight | 185 lb (84 kg; 13 st 3 lb) | ||
| Position | Left wing | ||
| Shot | Right | ||
| Played for | New York Rangers | ||
| Playing career | 1935–1946 | ||
Alexandre Dimitri Shibicky (born May 19, 1914 – died July 9, 2005) was a Canadian ice hockey player. He was a forward who played for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1935 to 1946.
Shibicky is famous for being the first player to use the "slapshot" in a game. This powerful shot involves winding up the stick and hitting the puck with a lot of force. He learned this move from his teammate Bun Cook in 1936.
He also helped the Rangers win the Stanley Cup in 1940. The Stanley Cup is one of the oldest and most famous trophies in sports.
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Early Life and Hockey Start
Alex Shibicky was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Like many Canadian kids, he grew up playing hockey. He started his journey in junior leagues. He played for teams like Winnipeg Columbus and the Selkirk Fishermen.
Before joining the NHL, he played for the New York Crescents. This team was part of the Eastern Hockey League (EAHL). He showed great skill, scoring 16 goals in 21 games.
NHL Career with the Rangers
Shibicky joined the New York Rangers in 1935. He quickly became an important player. He was known for his strong skating and powerful shots.
In 1937, he made history. He used the first recorded "slapshot" in an NHL game. This shot changed how players scored goals. It is now a common move in hockey.
He was a key part of the Rangers team. They won the Stanley Cup in 1940. This was a huge achievement for him and his team.
Service During World War II
During the Second World War, Alex Shibicky served his country. He joined the Canadian Forces. He spent three years serving in the military. This meant he took a break from his hockey career.
After the war, he returned to play for the Rangers. He continued to play until 1946.
Life After the NHL
After leaving the NHL, Shibicky played in other leagues. He played for the Providence Reds and the New Haven Ramblers. He also played for the New Westminster Royals.
He was also involved in the National Hockey League Players Association. This group helps protect the rights of hockey players. He served as its vice-president.
Alex Shibicky passed away on July 9, 2005. He was 91 years old. He is remembered as a hockey pioneer.
Awards and Achievements
- EAHL First All-Star Team (1935)
- Stanley Cup Championship (1940)
- Honoured Member of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
- Ranked No. 57 among the greatest New York Rangers players in a 2009 book.
