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Glenn Hall, an inductee into the Hockey Hall of Fame, renowned for his unbroken run of 502 consecutive games started as a netminder—an enduring NHL record—has passed away at the age of 94.
A representative for the Chicago NHL franchise verified that the organization was informed of Hall’s demise by his relatives. A historian connected to the league, who had communicated with Hall’s son, Pat, stated that Hall’s death occurred at a medical facility in Stony Plain, Alberta, last Wednesday.
Hall served as the primary goaltender, guiding Chicago to victory in the Stanley Cup in 1961. He also earned the title of the postseason’s most outstanding player in 1968 while playing for St. Louis, as the Blues advanced to the championship round before being defeated by Montreal.
The sequence of over 500 contests Hall played in goal stands as one of professional sports’ most enduring achievements, particularly considering the evolution of the goaltending role over subsequent decades. Including playoff appearances, Hall commenced 552 consecutive matches.
“Glenn demonstrated resilience, reliability, and exceptional skill as a goaltender,” stated Commissioner Gary Bettman. “That particular milestone, established between the 1955-56 and 1962-63 seasons, remains intact, will likely endure perpetually, and is nearly inconceivable — particularly when one considers he accomplished this feat without protective headgear.”
Affectionately known as “Mr. Goalie,” Hall secured the Calder Trophy, recognizing him as the top first-year player, in 1956 during his tenure with the Detroit Red Wings. Following a pair of seasons, he was traded to Chicago, accompanied by the esteemed forward Ted Lindsay.
Hall claimed two of his trio of Vezina Trophy accolades, awarded to the NHL’s premier goaltender, while with Chicago, specifically in 1963 and 1967. The St. Louis Blues selected him during the expansion draft when the National Hockey League expanded from six to twelve franchises, and he was instrumental in their advancement to the championship round during each of their inaugural three seasons.
Hall occupied the crease when Bobby Orr of Boston netted the decisive overtime goal, securing the Stanley Cup for the Bruins in 1970. This particular score is recognized as one of hockey’s most celebrated moments, largely due to Orr’s iconic airborne celebration thereafter.
Originating from Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Hall achieved first-team NHL All-Star status seven times, accumulating 407 victories and 84 shutouts across 906 contests during the regular season. His induction into the Hall of Fame took place in 1975, and the number 1 jersey he wore was formally retired by the Chicago organization in 1988.
Hall earned recognition as one of the premier 100 athletes throughout the league’s initial century of operation.
Danny Wirtz, chairman and chief executive of Chicago’s team, characterized Hall as a trailblazer and asserted he was “among the most distinguished and impactful netminders ever to grace our sport, serving as a foundational pillar of our club.”
“We extend our gratitude for his exceptional contributions to the game of hockey and to our organization, and we pledge to commemorate his legacy now and indefinitely,” Wirtz articulated.
