Charlie Gardiner

Originally from Scotland, Charlie Gardiner moved to Canada with his family at a young age. Falling in love with Hockey (as most Canadian boys do), Gardiner was a little late to the game and was placed in net as he was not as he was not as quick as the other skaters. It turned out to be a perfect fit for him, and his acrobatic style of play took him to the NHL where he joined the Chicago Black Hawks in 1927.

Gardiner would improve year by year, winning two Vezinas as the league’s top goalie. His last Vezina in 1934 also saw him anchor the Black Hawks to their first Stanley Cup. Sadly, Gardiner did not have time to soak up adulation as he passed away only weeks later.