Kicking off with tales of our personal drinking habits and a memorable trip to the Emerald Isle, we set the tone for an episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and unique insights. We celebrate the 90th birthday of hockey legend Brian Kilrea and navigate the hurdles of conducting public interviews. With stories that take you through the historical labyrinth of hockey player exploitation and the birth of player unions, Derek Sanderson’s career choices serve as the perfect illustration of a bygone era’s financial dynamics.

Shifting gears to the ice, we break down the early NHL season and its surprising twists. The Toronto Maple Leafs’ rocky start gets a close look, with echoes of the Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche's own challenges ringing in our ears. Fan reactions on social media are as unpredictable as the game, adding spice to the mix. Standout performances from the New York Rangers and Winnipeg Jets catch our attention, and we revisit some of our bold pre-season predictions. Meanwhile, Jacob Trouba's recent hit brings the conversation back to the grit of the game and the necessity of a tough team mindset.

From there, we journey through significant moments in hockey history, such as the pivotal "Springfield Incident" and the formation of the NHL Players Union. The narrative also tackles modern societal concerns like cashless transactions and their exclusionary potential. We round off our chat with a nod to consumer advocacy and the importance of maintaining one's convictions in a cashless world. Packed with humor and insights, this episode promises to entertain and engage with stories of past glories and present challenges.

Legendary coach Brian Kilrea joins us to share his extraordinary journey in Canadian major junior hockey, from scoring the LA Kings' first goal to navigating the strict world of Eddie Shore in Springfield. We reminisce about hockey's rich heritage in Northern Ontario, celebrating notable figures like Coniston's Jimmy Fox, Randy Boyd, and Gerry Foley. Oh, did we mention Chris Hawes? Our conversation is filled with personal stories and connections, shedding light on the profound impact Kilrea has had on the sport and the many lives he touched throughout his storied career.

Step back into the gritty world of 1960s professional hockey, where players faced grueling challenges under the demanding leadership of Eddie Shore. With gripping stories of resilience and determination, we uncover the harsh realities of playing through serious injuries and the relentless pursuit of excellence. This segment offers a raw, firsthand perspective on the era's unforgiving conditions, highlighting the incredible fortitude required to succeed and the camaraderie that emerged from shared struggles.

Finally, we explore the blend of talent and tenacity that defined players such as Bill Sweeney and Floyd Smith, and celebrate those who transitioned successfully into coaching, leaving a lasting legacy. With heartfelt gratitude, we wrap up this journey through hockey history, leaving you inspired by the tales of triumph, friendship, and the unyielding spirit of the game.

When was the last time you had an adventure that combined whiskey, stunning natural wonders, and hockey talk all in one? Join us, Hawes and Maguire, as we kick this season off in Port Rush, sharing tales from our whirlwind trip across Northern Ireland. Cristin's organizational prowess kept us on track through whiskey tastings at Bushmills and the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway. We're also joined by Dave, last year's hockey pool champion, who adds a fresh perspective on this magical journey, despite his self-proclaimed poor golf skills.

Switching gears from scenic landscapes to the rink, our banter weaves through late-night bar antics, golfing escapades, and a deep dive into the NHL preseason. We're dishing out tips for aspiring hockey pool participants and even explore the tantalizing idea of a trip to Ireland as a prize. Special nods are in order for Seamus Casey netting his first NHL goal while we are on Irish soil?? and speculations about Paul Henderson's Hockey Hall of Fame prospects, thanks to Mike Gartner's influence.

To wrap up this episode, we reflect on our shared love for travel, sports, and the occasional pint, recalling past trips and planning new adventures. We chat about the beauty of Belfast, ponder over the North-South divide, and muse on the challenges of keeping up with sports while on the road, especially during key playoff seasons. Balancing gigs with globetrotting, we find joy in the camaraderie of our adventures. Join us for a hearty blend of laughter, insights, and the spirit of offside travels with Hawes and Maguire.