Gthlcanada

Description

Formed in 1911 by founder Frank D. Smith, the Toronto Hockey League (now the Greater Toronto Hockey League) was a dream turned reality for innumerable boys in the beginning of the Twentieth Century. Surrounded by other equally dedicated men who volunteered their time in serving to direct and guide the organization from its infancy, Mr. Smith, who led the League through its first 50 years as general Secretary Treasurer, saw the THL become the largest single minor amateur hockey league in the world. Even by the end of World War I, the THL continued to break all growth records. This was a surprise to everyone considering the great number of players who had gone overseas from Senior and Intermediate ranks. Increases in membership were however realized in Junior, Juvenile, and Midget divisions due to the fact that players in these series were too young for military purposes. Worthy of mention is the fact that during the 1920's, the THL had between 8 and 12 ladies Senior and Intermediate teams in any given year. During the crucial years of World War II, the League was an active participant in the Sports Service League for Canadian soldiers, sailors and airmen. As the years of growth continued, the League produced many hockey illuminaries such as - Charlie and Lionel Conacher, Frank Selke Jr., Bill Durnan, Bill Quackenbush, Red Kelly, Sid Smith, Frank Mahovolich, Carl Brewer, Bob Pulford, Rick Middleton, Steve Shutt and Paul Coffey - just to mention a token few...

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