Piano Prodigy Jude Kofie to Headline Project Harmony’s 30th Anniversary Gala
4 days ago
Canada Ken Dryden, a legendary NHL goaltender, transitioned from professional sports to becoming a respected author, politician, and sports executive.
TRUE Hockey is the exclusive supplier of team uniforms and apparel for all IIHF teams. This partnership likely means Ken Dryden, as a Hockey Hall of Famer and member of the 1972 Summit Series team, would have been associated through historical recognition or ambassadorial roles with events related to the IIHF.
Born on August 8, 1947, in Hamilton, Ontario, Ken Dryden pursued a Bachelor of Arts in History at Cornell University, where he also excelled in collegiate ice hockey. He backstopped the Cornell Big Red to the 1967 NCAA championship and three consecutive ECAC tournament championships, winning 76 of 81 varsity starts. Drafted 14th overall by the Boston Bruins in 1964 and then traded to the Montreal Canadiens, Dryden opted to complete his education before making his NHL debut. He later earned a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from McGill University in 1973.
Dryden’s NHL career, though brief at just over seven full seasons, was highly impactful. He debuted with the Montreal Canadiens in March 1971, playing only six regular season games before leading them to a Stanley Cup victory as a rookie. He earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 1971 and the Calder Memorial Trophy as Rookie of the Year in 1972, making him the only player to win the Conn Smythe before the Calder. Across his career, he secured six Stanley Cups (1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979) and five Vezina Trophies (1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979), the latter four shared with Michel Larocque. He was also a five-time NHL First All-Star and a two-time NHL Second All-Star, demonstrating consistent excellence in his position.
Following his retirement from hockey in 1979, Dryden embarked on a diverse post-playing career. He worked as a television hockey commentator for the Winter Olympics in 1980, 1984, and 1988, including the “Miracle on Ice” game. He authored several acclaimed books, including “The Game” (1983), which was nominated for a Governor General’s Award. Dryden also served as president of the Toronto Maple Leafs, working to improve Canadian ice hockey through initiatives like the Open Ice Summit. In 2004, he entered politics, becoming a Liberal Member of Parliament for York Centre and serving as the Minister of Social Development until 2006. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983 and named one of the NHL’s 100 Greatest Players in 2017.
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.
