A pioneering sports journalist and executive who played a key role in establishing the National Hockey League (NHL) and served as its first president. He is credited with shaping the modern game of professional hockey.
Frank Calder is best known as the first president of the National Hockey League (NHL), serving from 1917 until his passing in 1943. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in transforming the NHL into the premier North American ice hockey league, overseeing its expansion from Canada into the United States.
Born on November 17, 1877, in Bristol, England, to Scottish parents, Calder's love for sports was evident from a young age. He participated in various sports, including rugby, cricket, handball, golf, and soccer, before immigrating to Canada as a young man.
Calder began his career as a sports editor at the Montreal Witness, later moving to the Montreal Herald and Daily Telegraph. He eventually took on the role of financial editor, covering the Montreal Stock Exchange. Despite shifting focus, Calder maintained his passion for sports, establishing the Montreal School Rugby League.
In 1903, Calder became the secretary-treasurer of the Montreal Football Soccer Association, a position he held until at least 1911. He represented the organization during the founding of the Province of Quebec Football Soccer Association and was elected to the executive committee in 1911 and 1912.
In 1917, Calder became the first president of the National Hockey League, succeeding as the last acting president of the National Hockey Association (NHA). He played a pivotal role in the transition from the NHA to the NHL, which was instrumental in expelling a troublesome franchise owner.
Under Calder's leadership, the NHL expanded from Canada into the United States, solidifying its position as the premier North American ice hockey league. He successfully fended off rival leagues, cementing the NHL's dominance in the sport.
Calder married Amelia Cole, a fellow teacher, and had three sons and one daughter. He passed away on February 4, 1943, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the world of ice hockey.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Calder was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1947. The Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL's top rookie, bears his name in honor of his tireless efforts in promoting and developing ice hockey.
Frank Calder's dedication, perseverance, and vision have left an indelible mark on the world of ice hockey. His legacy continues to inspire generations of players, coaches, and fans alike, solidifying his place as one of the most important figures in NHL history.
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A Canadian historian and author who wrote extensively on Canadian and world history, including biographies of prominent figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt and Richard Nixon.
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A media mogul who built a vast empire of newspapers, TV networks, and film studios, shaping global news and entertainment landscapes.
94 Years Old
Founded a Canadian media conglomerate, Canwest, and played a significant role in shaping the country's media landscape. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen.
