Hall of Fame Professional Hockey Player, Coach. For twenty seasons (1947 to 1966), he played at the defenseman position in the National Hockey League with the Chicago Black Hawks, New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings. Born William Alexander Gadsby, his passion for hockey was ignited during his youth as he spent many hours of the day on the ice with his friends. After deciding to pursue a professional career in hockey, he was spotted by an NHL scout who signed him to play with the Chicago Black Hawks. Following a brief period with the Kansas City Pla-Mors of the USHL (1946), he was promoted to the NHL during the 1946-1947 season. During the course of his career, he represented his defense position well and became know for the disregard of his own body, as he absorbed much punishment without fear of injury. He totaled 1,248 career regular season games and achieved all-star status eight-times. At the time of his retirement, he was the leader with 568 total points as a defenseman. After retiring as a player, he served for parts of two season as head coach of the Detroit Red Wings (1968 to 1969). He went on to co-own a golfing facility. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1970.
Hall of Fame Professional Hockey Player, Coach. For twenty seasons (1947 to 1966), he played at the defenseman position in the National Hockey League with the Chicago Black Hawks, New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings. Born William Alexander Gadsby, his passion for hockey was ignited during his youth as he spent many hours of the day on the ice with his friends. After deciding to pursue a professional career in hockey, he was spotted by an NHL scout who signed him to play with the Chicago Black Hawks. Following a brief period with the Kansas City Pla-Mors of the USHL (1946), he was promoted to the NHL during the 1946-1947 season. During the course of his career, he represented his defense position well and became know for the disregard of his own body, as he absorbed much punishment without fear of injury. He totaled 1,248 career regular season games and achieved all-star status eight-times. At the time of his retirement, he was the leader with 568 total points as a defenseman. After retiring as a player, he served for parts of two season as head coach of the Detroit Red Wings (1968 to 1969). He went on to co-own a golfing facility. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1970.
Bio by: C.S.
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