Not only for new, young fans but also for fans who are looking to become even more interested in Sharks hockey should understand the team's past. The importance of understanding the history of the San Jose Sharks goes beyond just basic fandom. It is a necessity that raises the passion and dedication of Sharks fans around the world.
For hockey enthusiasts like myself, it's more than just a sport on ice. It's more than just the competitive nature of the game. It's about the tradition, the moments, and the stories of every player who put on the teal uniform. This is especially true for Sharks fans specifically.
So let's take a deep dive into the Shark Tank and learn how to build knowledge on Sharks' history.
1. Learn the basics
The San Jose Sharks still remain a relatively young hockey team in the NHL. Their debut came during the 1991-1992 season where they played their very first game against the Vancouver Canucks. Although they were not very good, it's important to remember players who were around then to help build this organization into what it is today.
Players such as Doug Wilson.
Doug Wilson was the last NHL player to not rock a helmet on the ice. He served as Captain of the Sharks during their first two years in the league. The current Hockey Hall of Famer, Norris Trophy Winner, and Blackhawks legend was an exceptional player on and off the ice who was able to lead this team in the direction they wanted to move in.
2. Explore Past Greats
New Sharks fans should absolutely look back on all of the talent the Sharks had on this hockey team in the past. From Patrick Marleau and Joe Thornton, who together, built an amazing locker room culture.
Players like Owen Nolan who was one of the great Sharks Captains scored 451 points in 568 games with the Sharks. Jonathan Cheechoo who still holds the Sharks record for most goals in a single season with 56. Former Captain Joe Pavelski who played 963 games with the team, scoring 761 points, and leading the team to their first-ever Stanley Cup Final in 2016. Brent Burns who brought the Norris Trophy to San Jose for the first time in 2016-2017 as the league's best defenseman with 76 points in 82 games.
There are so many past greats that upcoming fans need to do their research on. These players and what they achieved not only personally, but for the Sharks organization is truly special.
3. Watch Historical Games
Two games that immediately come to mind include: the 1st round, Game 7 of the 1994 Stanley Cup Playoffs, and Game 7, also in the first round, in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
1st round, Game 7, 1994 Stanley Cup Playoffs: The San Jose Sharks third ever NHL season and they upset one of the greatest teams in NHL history in round one. They defeated the great Detroit Red Wings 3-2 in double-overtime to move on to the second round. The same Red Wings team held Stevie Yzerman, Sergei Fedorov, Ray Sheppard, and Nicklas Lidstrom. The list goes on more. It was a moment that should always be remembered by Sharks fans as it truly was a special moment in Sharks history.
1st round, Game 7, 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs: I remember this game so vividly. The Sharks were down 3-1 at one point in this series. They tied it up, just to end up facing elimination in the third period of game 7 with 10 minutes left. The score at this point in the game was 3-0.
Until...
Off the faceoff, boom. Down goes Joe Pavelski. Here comes Joe Thornton with the towel on his head. The Sharks team, as well as fans everywhere, were defeated. Despite being put on the man advantage for five straight minutes.
Logan Couture, Tomas Hertl, Logan Couture again, then Kevin Lebanc.
4-3 Sharks. Except for the fact Vegas would tie it up and the game would go into overtime.
However, Erik Karlsson would make a simple yet slick pass to Barclay Goodrow for a zone entry, where Goodrow would cruise his way to the crease, around Marc-Andre Fleury, and ultimately win the game in a dramatic fashion.
What. A. Game. I was on my feet from the second they put 5:00 minutes on the board to when Goodrow scored in overtime. That is a game I, along with many other Sharks fans, will emotionally never forget.
4. Engage with Books, Articles, Podcasts, Interviews, etc.
I finished a book written by Dan Rusanowsky, the Sharks radio host, titled "If These Walls Could Talk." This book was filled with personal stories from Dan's point of view and included behind-the-scenes interactions with players and great moments that literally made me feel as if I was part of it all.
Read about the team. I go through articles nearly every day because I want to know what is going on with the team. That's part of being a die-hard fan. Listen to interviews of your favorite players and engage in any type of media you can.
5. Create your own Sharks history timeline
Show off when you became a Sharks fan. Collect jerseys, cards, and shirts, of all your favorite players to portray the era of Sharks hockey that you grew up in. For example, I collect hockey cards and jerseys. I have about six Logan Couture jerseys, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Erik Karlsson, William Eklund, and Thomas Bordeleau. I'd say it's fairly easy to guess the era in which I became a Sharks fan. My hockey cards include the same except add Timo Meier, Tomas Hertl, and more.
When you become a fan of any sports team it's important to collect and appreciate. Appreciate the moments and memories they create for us.
It's important for every fan to be able to feel a certain way about their team. These suggestions will undoubtedly help those feelings come out. This team has a special history and I hope more young and new fans learn to appreciate the San Jose Sharks the way I do.
Come back soon, for a deep dive into the Shark Tank.
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