If Mel Bridgman was playing in the National Hockey League today, he might be considered the prototypical power forward. Combining toughness with the ability to score - not to mention leadership qualities - the six-foot, 190 lbs centre was a valuable asset to the five teams he played for in his 14-season National Hockey League career. Bridgman was not an instant success in hockey. But his determination and pride carried him a long way and allowed him to develop quickly once he reached the junior hockey level. He set a Victoria Cougars record with 157 points in 1974-75, prompting the Philadelphia Flyers to pick him No.1 overall in the NHL draft. Arriving in the Broad Street Bullies era in Philly, the burly centre was an instant hit. His aggressive play landed him in the penalty box often but also helped notch a few extra goals. The Flyers reached the Stanley Cup final in his rookie season and again in 1979-80, after the Flyers, led by team captain Mel, went 35 games unbeaten to start the season. Bridgman enjoyed his best offensive season in Calgary, scoring 75 points in 1981- 82. He had six 20-goal seasons, retiring in 1989 with a total of 252 goals, 449 assists and 1,625 penalty minutes in 977 career regular season games. Then added 67 playoff points in 125 games. Recording yet another first. In 1992 Bridgman was named general manager of the expansion Ottawa Senators.

Sipping from hockey's Holy Grail was an experience that eluded Russ Courtnall. Nevertheless, his speed and puck-handling ability made him an exciting player to watch, from his Junior Cougar days in Victoria, throughout his 16-year National Hockey League career. Russ and older brother Geoff form one of the most prolific and long-lasting brother combinations in NHL history. Each played more than 1,000 games and together they scored 664 regular season goals. Russ Courtnall's talent was evident early on as he skated and competed on par with players much older. While he enjoyed playing soccer and baseball, once he devoted himself to hockey it was clear he would catch the eye of the professional scouts. The Toronto Maple Leafs were particularly interested and selected him seventh overall in the 1983 draft when he was 17 and playing junior hockey. He scored 66 points in 32 games with the Cougars the following season, joined the Canadian national team before being called up by the Leafs for good. He spent four more full seasons with the Toronto before being dealt to Montreal. The Habs went to the 1989 Cup final that year but lost out to the Calgary Flames. Russ played for four more NHL clubs including Minnesota, Dallas, Vancouver and New York. As well, he represented Canada in world competitions four times as a junior and pro. He had nine 20 goals or better seasons, finishing with 297 goals along with 447 assists by the time he retired in 1999 as a member of the Los Angeles Kings.