Snap Decision: The Originals of Seattle Steelheads: A Journey Through Hockey History

The Birth of a Hockey Dynasty

Snap Decision: The Originals (Seattle Steelheads Book 2)

by Jami Davenport

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3692 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	280 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In the bustling metropolis of Seattle, amidst the backdrop of the iconic Space Needle and the vibrant waterfront, a hockey legend was born. The year was 1958, and the city was gripped by a newfound passion for the sport of ice hockey. Enter the Seattle Steelheads, a team destined to become synonymous with the very essence of the game.

The Steelheads emerged from the ashes of the Seattle Totems, a short-lived but influential team that played in the Western Hockey League (WHL) from 1944 to 1952. Inspired by the Totems' legacy and the growing demand for hockey in the region, a group of local investors led by Lou and Frank Pieroni banded together to create a new team that would capture the hearts and minds of Seattle hockey fans.

Blazing a Trail in the WHL

The Steelheads joined the WHL in 1958, becoming the first professional hockey team based in Seattle since the Totems. They quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, boasting a talented roster that included future NHL stars such as Bryan Hextall Sr., Bob McCammon, and Gerry Ehman.

Under the guidance of legendary coach Bob McCammon Sr., the Steelheads quickly rose through the ranks of the WHL, capturing their first league championship in 1961. This victory marked the beginning of a golden era for the team, as they went on to win three more WHL titles in 1963, 1967, and 1969.

The Steelheads' dominance on the ice was matched by their growing popularity off the ice. Their home games at Seattle Ice Arena became must-see events, drawing enthusiastic crowds that packed the stands night after night. The team's success and the passion of their fans helped to solidify Seattle's reputation as a hockey hotbed.

Legendary Players and Iconic Moments

The Seattle Steelheads were more than just a team; they were a collection of legendary players who etched their names into the annals of hockey history. Among the most notable Steelheads players was Bryan Hextall Sr., a gifted goaltender who played for the team from 1958 to 1966. Hextall Sr. was known for his exceptional athleticism and acrobatic saves, and he helped lead the Steelheads to their first WHL championship in 1961.

Another Steelheads icon was Gerry Ehman, a high-scoring forward who played for the team from 1961 to 1970. Ehman was a prolific scorer and a fan favorite, and he played a key role in the Steelheads' three WHL championships during the 1960s.

Bob McCammon Sr., the legendary coach who guided the Steelheads to their early success, was also a former player for the team. McCammon Sr. was known for his innovative coaching style and his ability to get the most out of his players. He was inducted into the WHL Hall of Fame in 1994.

Throughout their history, the Steelheads produced numerous other notable players who went on to successful careers in the NHL. Some of these players include Bob McCammon Jr., Bryan Trottier, and Jason Herter.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Seattle Steelheads' legacy extends far beyond their impressive on-ice achievements. The team played an instrumental role in fostering the growth of hockey in the Pacific Northwest, inspiring countless young players and fans alike. The Steelheads' success also helped to put Seattle on the map as a major hockey city, paving the way for the arrival of the Seattle Kraken in the NHL in 2021.

In addition to their WHL championships, the Steelheads also won numerous other honors and awards throughout their history. These include the WHL President's Cup in 1961, 1963, and 1967, the WHL Playoff Championship in 1969, and the Lester Patrick Cup in 1969.

The End of an Era

After 20 seasons of thrilling victories and unforgettable moments, the Seattle Steelheads played their final game in 1977. The team had faced financial difficulties in recent years, and the decision was made to relocate to Salt Lake City, Utah, where they became the Utah Golden Eagles.

While the Steelheads may have left Seattle, their legacy continued to live on. The team's success and the passion of their fans helped to create a vibrant hockey culture in the Pacific Northwest, one that continues to thrive today. The Steelheads' name and logo have become synonymous with the early days of hockey in Seattle, and they remain a beloved part of the city's sports history.

The Spirit of the Steelheads Lives On

The spirit of the Seattle Steelheads continues to live on in various ways. The team's name and logo have been revived by several minor league and youth hockey teams in the Pacific Northwest, including the Seattle Steelheads of the Western Hockey League (WHL) and the Seattle Steelheads youth hockey organization.

The Seattle Kraken, the city's current NHL team, also pays homage to the Steelheads' legacy. The Kraken's logo incorporates elements of the Steelheads' original logo, and the team's "S" patch is a nod to the Steelheads' iconic crest.

The Seattle Steelheads were more than just a hockey team; they were pioneers who ignited the passion for hockey in the Pacific Northwest. Their legendary players, iconic moments, and enduring legacy continue to inspire generations of hockey fans. The Steelheads' story is a testament to the power of sport to bring people together, create lasting memories, and leave an indelible mark on a city's identity. And as the hockey tradition continues to flourish in Seattle, the spirit of the Steelheads will always be a part of the game's fabric.

Snap Decision: The Originals (Seattle Steelheads Book 2)

by Jami Davenport

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3692 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	280 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE