United States Hockey Hall of Fame Class Announced

The United States Hockey Hall of Fame announced this years inductions Tuesday. Former New York Rangers Brian Leetch and Mike Richter will be inducted as well as Brett Hull and Cammi Granato.

Granato the younger sister of former NHLer and current Head Coach of the Colorado Avalanche Tony Granato. Cammi led USA to a gold medal in 1998, this isn't her first Hall of Fame induction as she was inducted last year into the International Hockey Hall of Fame. Granato will be the first women to be inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame.

Richter and Leetch might be best known for leading the New York Rangers to a Stanley Cup win in 1994. However, Richter when healthy was one the NHL's best year in and year out, impressive because he competed against the likes of Martin Broduer, Dominik Hasek, and Patrick Roy among others. Leetch was a joy to watch at the blue-line, even though I'm a Flyer fan I have to give him his props. Leetch was so fluid, so steady, rarely made mistakes just an all around awesome defensemen.

As for Brett Hull , what can you say that hasn't been said already? Clearly, one of the best to play the game ever, period. When Hull started out with the Flames he was sort of in his Father's shadow, Hall of Famer Bobby Hull. Brett clearly made a name for himself, now you rarely hear "son of Bobby Hull, Brett." Brett has made his own Hall of Fame career, his own name and he's earned it. Oddly enough on a side note Brett Hull's first experience in organized hockey was on a team with Cammi Granato's brother Tony.

Just an impressive class, I've always said that I thought Cammi was a better hockey player then Tony. Much like I say Sheryl is better then Reggie Miller. I don't REALLY mean it, but you could certainly make the argument for Cammi, she's excelled at every level. Once again, a real impressive class, the ceremony will be held October 10.


Mike Santa Barbara