When Johnny Bower was still a youngster, his father told
him that if he worked hard every day and put passion into
his profession, it would pay off in the long run. It was good
advice, especially the part about the long run. For more than
a decade, Bower toiled in hockey’s minor leagues, waiting for
his chance at the big time. It wasn’t until he was 33, an age
when most players are winding down their careers, that he
finally debuted in the NHL.
him that if he worked hard every day and put passion into
his profession, it would pay off in the long run. It was good
advice, especially the part about the long run. For more than
a decade, Bower toiled in hockey’s minor leagues, waiting for
his chance at the big time. It wasn’t until he was 33, an age
when most players are winding down their careers, that he
finally debuted in the NHL.
Bower’s story is one of determination and self-belief. It offers
evidence that greatness can be achieved when one refuses to
give up on one’s goals.
“Johnny Bower is one of those guys who is just like part of the family.
You’d be proud to have him as a neighbour.”?Gordie Howe
“I think everyone in the dressing room knew why we won the Cup. It was
those two old coots in net?Johnny Bower and Terry Sawchuk. They carried
us to that Cup.”?former Toronto Maple Leaf teammate, Ron Ellis