A Different Sort of Hockey Drill

We have all read or heard of hockey players performing in pain. Throughout the ages a variety of injuries have slowed down or knocked someone out of the line-up.

In October of 1958, Parker Mac Donald, working out with Buffalo in the American Hockey League, revealed a rather unusual source for his pain.

Three years previous. Mac Donald underwent an operation for a separated shoulder. Part of the process included doctors placing a plate in his shoulder. Unfortunately, part of the drill they were using broke off and remained in place. It wasn't removed until September of 1958.

"I knew the drill was there, but I was told, 'Don't worry, it won't hurt'," MacDonald stated in 1958. As time passed MacDonald felt "it really hurt." When asked if the injury hindered his ability to play, MacDonald said, "I didn't feel right last year."