Tony Esposito

Anthony James "Tony O" Esposito (born April 23, 1943 – August 10, 2021) is a retired professional ice hockey goaltender, who played in the National Hockey League, most notably for the Chicago Black Hawks. He is considered one of the pioneers of the now popular butterfly style. Tony's brother Phil, also played in the NHL, He was the first NHL Goalie to wear the number 35.

Quotes

 * I had a great time, and I always took care of my body. That's the thing some players don't. For a goalie, there's no reason he can't play until he's 40 if he takes care of himself. The reflexes are still there.
 * Quoted in Andrew Podnieks, "One on One with Tony Esposito," Legends of Hockey.net (2002-03-04)
 * Esposito comments on his NHL career.


 * I wanted something different—something to make me stand out and for people to notice.
 * Quoted in Andrew Podnieks, "One on One with Tony Esposito," Legends of Hockey.net (2002-03-04)
 * Esposito explains why he chose to wear the number 35, instead of the more standard goaltender numbers 1 and 30.