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Thayer Tutt |
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| Born on March 2, 1912 in Coronado, California, USA. Tutt can be largely credited with raising the awareness of the game of ice hockey as well as its development within the United States, with his ability to mix business with sport. Ranked as a Lieutenant-Colonel during World War II, Tutt exhibited similar leadership skills when establishing and financing the now annual NCAA tournament - USA's national championship. His firm belief that politics should not hamper the progress of the game, was central to improving ice hockey by opening up the borders to more international competition. Specifically, Tutt helped form the US National Team and was responsible for organizing the first ever North American visit of the Soviet National Team back in 1959. Beginning in 1963, Tutt served as an IIHF Vice President until 1986, aside from his three year term as President from 1966-69. For much of that same period, (1972 - 86) Tutt was also the President of the Amateur Hockey Association of the United States. In recognition of his achievements, Tutt was inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in 1973 and also received the Lester Patrick Award for outstanding service to U.S. hockey. Other notable tributes include his 1978 Hockey Hall of Fame induction and in 1987 was bestowed with the Olympic Order. Today, the Thayer Tutt Award is named in his honour, and goes to a volunteer who has made significant contributions to ice hockey in the U.S. |
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