Masterton, Bill

Date of Death: 1968-01-15
Date of Birth: 1938-08-13

Born in Winnipeg, this centreman played junior with the St. Boniface Canadiens who won the 1956 Manitoba title. He attended the University of Denver and obtained a Master's Degree in Finance. When the NHL expanded in 1967-68, he joined the Minnesota North Stars. On January 13, 1968 tragedy struck when, after being checked, he hit his head on the ice and died two days later. The NHL created the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in his memory. It is awarded annually to players who display great perseverence.