Small cities and villages wit many NHL players

[Davenport]

Once upon a time - in communities like Rouyn, Flin Flon and Kirkland Lake - hockey represented a road out of town, to escape a life spent in a factory or a mine. Dean Prentice got a taste of the mines in the area which now is Timmins, and had all the motivation he needed to ensure that he "made it" in the NHL. Went directly from junior hockey in Guelph to a spot on the New York Rangers, without playing a single game in the minors (unlike Andy Bathgate). Forechecking and backchecking were a price Prentice was willing to pay to stay out of the mines.

 

[sr edler]

It makes all the sense in the world that more or less isolated smaller towns in colder climates produced hockey talents. What else were you supposed to do in these towns during the winter season, especially pre Internet. Play cards with grandma?