Learn more about the history of hockey in Michigan on Hockey Day

There will be more than 100 hockey events taking place across the state during Hockey Day in Michigan this Saturday. Yet only one offers a historical perspective on why hockey has become such an integral part of Michigan’s sports culture. At 1 p.m. on Feb. 16, veteran sports broadcast Raymond Rolak will host a multimedia presentation at the Westland Public Library, designed to show hockey enthusiasts some fascinating photos and share historical information about hockey in Michigan.

Here’s more information about the event (and a sneak peek at some of the photos):

CELEBRATING HOCKEY DAY IN MICHIGAN IN WESTLAND

SATURDAY FEB. 16, 2013 1:00 p.m.

at the WESTLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY 

Michigan’s rich and storied hockey history will be showcased and celebrated with a multi-media presentation hosted by veteran sports broadcaster Raymond Rolak, on Saturday, February 16, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at the Westland Public Library 

Metro Detroit has a strong tradition of national success and the Hockey Day in Michigan events in conjunction with Hockey Weekend Across America sponsored by USA Hockey will surely enlighten and entertain.

Rolak, who produced the award winng docu-drama “The Hobey Baker Story” will share some of the lost-to-history hockey stories that were pioneered in Detroit.  Hear about the robust rivalry in the 1950’s and 60’s between the University of Michigan and Michigan State.  Gain the surprise knowledge of who won the first Big Ten Conference Ice Hockey Championship and how international hockey prospered with a strong Detroit influence.

Details of both men and women’s hockey history will be touched on including the most historic year for the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association.  Look back and celebrate some of the most notable age-group National Championship teams from the Detroit area.

Does the Olympia, Detroit Skating Club, Winter Wonderland, State Fair Ice Rink and Gordy Howe Hockeyland evoke any memories?  In the late 1960’s those were the only indoor ice rinks available in Metro Detroit.  Who remembers that the University of Detroit had a collegiate hockey team in 1970 that played their home games at the Olympia?

Come enjoy this now sixth annual Hockey Day in Michigan spearheaded by the Central Collegiate Hockey Association.  You are invited to wear your favorite hockey jersey.  Westland Public Library, Faust Branch, 16123 Central City Parkway, Westland, MI  48185   734-326-6123   Please pre-register for this free event.   http://www.westland.lib.mi.us/

Check out some of these photos Rolak shared with MiHockey: