The Daring Dare: Would Dropping the Stanley Cup Cause a Catastrophe?

It's a question that has crossed the minds of hockey fans and aspiring hockey players alike: what would happen if someone were to drop the Stanley Cup? The sacred trophy, emblematic of the NHL championship, has weathered the test of time, but its potential for loss or damage has always been a subject of great concern. In reality, the Stanley Cup has faced quite the adventure over its 126-year history, with multiple drops and notable incidents that have tested its resilience.

The Protector and Polisher’s Role

Phil Prichard, the official Protector and Polisher of the Stanley Cup, is a legend in his own right. His title may sound like a joke, but it's a serious responsibility. Tracing back to the late 1970s, Prichard's dedication ensures that the trophy remains in pristine condition, regardless of the circumstances surrounding its journey.

Prichard's role is not just ceremonial; it's crucial. He accompanies the cup on its triumphal tours, ensuring its safety and shine. However, even with such meticulous care, incidents have occurred. The Stanley Cup has been dropped multiple times, and in one infamous instance, it was even submerged in a lake before Prichard's tenure. But what if a drop were to occur today, during a celebratory moment or during hooligan behavior? Would the cup survive, or would it face a catastrophic fate?

Historical Drops and Near Misses

While Phil Prichard's presence is reassuring, the Stanley Cup has not been immune to mishaps. Over its 126-year history, the cup has been dropped numerous times, with the first drop occurring in 1895. Since then, drops have become more frequent, with recorded incidents happening in various locations, from bustling arenas to crowded public spaces.

In one notable incident, a fan dropped the Stanley Cup in the lobby of the Ottawa Civic Centre in 2011. While the cup emerged relatively unscathed, it is these near misses that highlight the risk involved. Another memorable drop occurred during a fan celebration outside of the Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, in 2005, where the cup fell from a car lifted by a group of fans, narrowly avoiding a disastrous outcome.

These events underscore the delicate nature of the Stanley Cup and the potential consequences of such a drop. Comparing the real Stanley Cup to the presentation cup, created in 1963, it's clear that the latter is a duplicate designed for temporary use. This presentation cup is the one paraded around and displayed on TV, while the original cup rests safely in the Hockey Hall of Fame.

The Stanley Cup's Backup Plan

The NHL has taken steps to ensure the safety of the Stanley Cup throughout its history. In 1963, recognizing the vulnerability of the original cup, they created a presentation cup. This duplicate trophy is used during the championship parade and game celebrations, allowing the original cup to remain in a secure location at all times. The presentation cup is a faithful replica, designed to withstand the tribulations of exposure to fans and the elements.

Further insurance for the Stanley Cup's longevity comes in the form of a third cup, known as the permanent cup, which was introduced in 1993. This cup is identical to the presentation cup, but it never leaves the Hockey Hall of Fame. It bears the same engravings and markings, ensuring that each presentation cup is a true reflection of the original. This three-tier system provides multiple layers of protection, safeguarding the Stanley Cup against potential loss or damage.

Conclusion: The Stanley Cup's Everlasting Resilience

While the idea of dropping the Stanley Cup might seem catastrophic, the reality is that the cup has already withstood the test of numerous drops and mishaps. The NHL's dedication to protecting the genuine trophy through the use of presentation cups and permanent cups ensures that the Stanley Cup remains an unbreakable symbol of hockey's highest achievement. No matter the circumstances, the Stanley Cup has proven its indomitable spirit and enduring legacy. So, to those who dare to envision the worst, rest assured that the Stanley Cup has already faced a myriad of challenges, and it remains a testament to hockey's most cherished tradition.