For most of us our teams are out of the playoffs because of one reason or another. Sure we catch some of the games right now, but we definitely have some more time on our hands. Here are three books worth taking a look at this off-season.
The Final Call : Hockey Stories from a Legend in Stripes by Kerry Fraser
Just over a year now legendary referee Kerry Fraser hung up the skates. Fraser began his NHL referring career in the 1980-1981 season combining for more than 2,100 regular and playoff season games. To say “he has seen it all” would be a understatement. Heck, he was one of the 3 remaining referees covered by the grandfather clause that allowed him to skate without his helmet.
Fraser’s book covers his years as a referee as well as his thoughts on the game over the years. The book is sure to keep you entertained.
Tough Guy : My Life on the Edge by Bob Probert
The title says it all. Bob Probert was one of the toughest fighters in the NHL for both the Detroit Red Wings and the Chicago Blackhawks. The number 24 racked up 3,574 penalty minutes over his career and to some lack of knowledge, posted some decent points over his career.
Probert’s book takes a look at his life from his own eyes, from moments on the ice to his drug problems off the ice. Passing away on July 5 of 2010 of a heart attack, Probert never saw the final copy. His wife Dani wanted his story to be told, and for good reasons. The book is raw, funny, and offers a look into a man’s life who had many demons.
The Hockey Play Book: Teaching Hockey Systems by Michael A. Smith
We here the jargon; 1-2-2, overload the slot and a left wing lock. But let’s be honest, we don’t know the detailed workings of a hockey strategy. Smith’s Hockey Play Book dives into all the strategies of hockey so you as a fan or a player can better understand the game. Pick it up, read it, re-read it again to better understand, and watch the pro’s and point out what you have learned. As a player, the book will help you to think the game through better, hopefully allowing you to see the play happen before it does.
