A solid, if unspectacular, defenseman throughout his NHL career, Craig Hartsburg also distinguished himself on the international stage. He was twice a member of Canada's National Junior Team, winning a silver medal in 1977 and a bronze in 1978. He was a member of the Canadian team that was beaten handily by the Soviets in the final game of the 1981 Canada Cup, but had a chance to redeem himself as a member of Team Canada' dramatic 1987 championship team.
In addition to the World Juniors and Canada Cup, Hartsburg also represented his country three times at the World Championships. He was a bronze medal winner with Team Canada in 1982 and 1983, and though Canada finished fourth at the 1987 World Championships Hartsburg's play was rewarded when he was named the tournament's best defenseman. |