The Gumper
January 29, 2007Since taking up hockey in China I have become fascinated with the history of the game. My earliest recollections go back to some late 70’s Canadiens games but my first solid following was the NY Islanders during their 4 year run as Stanley Cup Champions. I have become more intrigued however with the earlier times - the heydays of old time hockey as some would say.
In reading up on the history one character that stands out for me was that of Lorne “Gump” Worsley. He had the distinctions of being a Vezina winner, winning the Stanley Cup and also having the NHL record for losses. During most of his career he played with an awful NY Rangers team where he routinely faced 40+ shots a night. While playing for the Rangers a reporter once asked him what team gave him the most trouble on the ice and he replied “The New York Rangers”.
Some more examples of his wit. A Rangers coach once told him he shouldn’t be in the league having such a large beer belly … the Gumper shot back “I don’t drink beer I am strictly a rye man.” And wry as well. Another great quote of his was “The only thing worse than being an NHL goaltender would be a javelin catcher at a track meet.”
Unfortunately the reason for this posting is to pass on the sad news that the Gumper has passed away today at the age of 77. Here’s to the Gumper in all of us.
