Sheldon Kannegiesser with the Los Angeles Kings — 1975.

What readers are saying

When I heard your book was poetry, I said, “no thanks—real hockey players don't write poetry!” But then a friend gave me your ‘Hock and McKey’ poem to read about the roots of ice hockey, and I laughed so hard it made my sides ache! I would never have believed I could have so much fun reading this stuff! I went out immediately and bought several copies of your book for friends who love it!

Dave M., Ontario, Canada

As a woman who's never had an interest in sports and knows absolutely nothing about hockey, it's hard to believe I could enjoy this book so much! It made me laugh out loud and it made me cry (especially your poem “Donuts!” about Tim Horton). I love the rhyme and rhythm of these poems—it's addictive and what's more, you've turned me into a hockey fan!

Leslie B., Santa Barbara, California

I'm a long-time hockey fan and have to admit I've always enjoyed the fights. The way you describe them so vividly and colorfully in your poems ‘The Irish Rebellion,’ and ‘The Mighty Hutch,’ made me feel like I was in the middle of the action. Knowing these fights were actual events is the best part and puts this book over the top!

Robert G., Ventura, California

There are no words I can use to describe the ‘Series of '72’ except that it's absolutely brilliant! Reliving the events of that Series in rhyme was amazing! The colorful and descriptive language is gripping and could only have been written by someone with an intimate, inside knowledge of the game, and a rare gift for the written word.

Jerry L., Ontario, Canada

Sheldon Kannegiesser Biography

Author Sheldon (Shelly) Kannegiesser
"The Hockey Player Poet"

Canadian born Sheldon Kannegiesser played twelve years in the National Hockey League from 1967 through 1979 with New York, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles and Vancouver, with minor league stints in Omaha, Buffalo and Hershey. After retiring from hockey he spent many years in Southern California as an entrepreneur and businessman while raising his two sons, Brett and Jameson. Unquestionably one of the “biggest names” to ever play professional hockey, Shelly credits the twelve letters in his last name as the single most contributing factor. He was once voted the best dressed player in the National Hockey League, and holds the unofficial record for scoring the longest goal in the history of the sport—from behind his own net! He recounts the story of that goal in his very entertaining ballad, 'They Sent Me Down To Chocolate Town.' His extensive experience in business, combined with his athletic background, sense of humor, and penchant for the poetic, make him a favorite as a keynote speaker. Shelly can be contacted for a speaking engagement throughout the year by visiting the GUEST SPEAKER page.

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