End of an Era

The following article, which features former Clarkson standouts Craig Conroy and Todd Marchant, appeared in the August 2011 issue of USA Hockey Magazine.

By Harry Thompson

They have been called the “greatest generation of American hockey players.” They were inspired by the events of Feb. 22, 1980 and took American hockey to another level with their actions on NHL ice and international arenas.

They won Stanley Cups and Olympic medals. They answered the bell when their country called, and they always wore the red, white and blue with pride.

During and immediately after the  2010-11 season, several of the best American players to ever lace up a pair of skates called it a career. Some held elaborate retirement ceremonies, while others seemed to quietly call it a career before packing up their hockey bags one last time and exiting out the back door of the arena.

No matter what, they left the game the same way they played – with dignity and class.

Here’s a look at four American players who have inspired future generations of American stars:

Craig Conroy
Potsdam, N.Y.

Known for his outgoing and talkative nature, Craig Conroy was a fan favorite in every NHL city where he played. Shortly after playing in his 1,000th NHL game, Conroy was placed on waivers and retired on Feb. 4, 2011.

He finished his 17-year NHL career with 182 goals and 542 points in 1,009 games for Montreal, St. Louis, Los Angeles and Calgary.

Growing up in the shadow of Lake Placid, the Clarkson University standout finally realized his Olympic dream when he wore the red, white and blue at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Torino, Italy.

“I remember the 1980 Miracle On Ice,” he said. “A lot of players now don’t remember, but I do.”

Todd Marchant
Buffalo, N.Y.

Over the course of his 18-year NHL career, Todd Marchant earned the reputation as the ultimate team player. In his new role as the director of player development, Marchant will help prepare and educate Anaheim Duck prospects to succeed in professional hockey.

The move will allow Marchant to spend more time with his family, who have always supported him through a career that saw him play in 1,195 games with the New York Rangers, Edmonton Oilers, Columbus Blue Jackets and Anaheim, where he won a Stanley Cup in 2007.

“I always knew that at some point you have to make a decision,” said Marchant, who was a member of the 1994 U.S. Olympic Team. “I had a great career. I cherished every day and every moment that I have been in the National Hockey League. I was never expected to spend one day in the league, much less 18 years.”

Complete article can be accessed via the USA Hockey Magazine Web site by clicking here.