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Seasons on Ice - The Birth of Wisconsin Badgers Hockey
The Wisconsin Badgers Hockey Story
Seasons on Ice - The Birth of Wisconsin Badgers Hockey is a new book summarizing the never before told story about the Wisconsin Badgers men's hockey program. It is a meticulously researched chronology documenting the origins of ice hockey during the initial era at the University of Wisconsin from the 1890s until 1935. A historical narrative providing a unique perspective on Badger hockey and a rare glimpse into the program over 100 years ago.
Rare Hockey Photos and Images
Features over 200 photos, some not seen in over 100 years. Many pictures have never been seen before. Some photos generously contributed from the hockey programs at other Midwest Universities. Also contains game schedules and results from 1912 - 1935. Including complete rosters, when available.
Evolution of Badgers Varsity Hockey
Hockey developed quite a following in Madison, Wisconsin as a recreational activity that grew into a full-fledged varsity sport at the University of Wisconsin by 1922. Follow the team as they transformed from amateur club teams until their formal designation as a varsity sport at Wisconsin and fought to play until the program was canceled in 1935.
Behind the Scenes
See how this program was literally built from the ice up and learn about several of the unique individuals who shaped the character of Badger hockey for generations to follow. Ultimately, making it possible for the program to be revived nearly three decades later in 1963 and evolve into a national powerhouse with six national titles to date.
Did You Know
Did you know that, Seasons on Ice - The Birth of Wisconsin Badgers Hockey, has a book cover loaded with real Wisconsin hockey treasures? Some are well over 100 years old. How many have you seen before?
expert analysis
“Nelson channeled his curiosity about the players in the old-time uniforms into a labor of love. After nearly seven years of research, he shines a light on the forgotten era of Badger hockey. This historical narrative was pieced together through information Nelson located in newspapers and school publications from the 1890s until the program was canceled in 1935.”
-Bill Brophy
Excerpt from Foreword in Seasons on Ice - The Birth of Wisconsin Badgers Hockey
Former sports editor at the Wisconsin State Journal. Involved with WCHA for nearly 50 years. Currently a TV analyst for college and high school sports and his work seen on Bally Sports, FS1 and NCAA.com.
A Champions perspective
“I grew up playing the game in Minnesota and after High School I was offered multiple scholarships to play college hockey. The University of Wisconsin-Madison was the best option for me. It was definitely the right choice because I played in three out of four NCAA championships in my four-year college career. And I was fortunate enough to win it twice, in 1981 & 1983. In 1982 we took second place. Those years were the best times of my life!
After reading Nelson’s book, Seasons on Ice - The Birth of Wisconsin Badgers Hockey, I now realize I owe so much to those individuals that fought to make UW hockey successful during the initial era. Without those people and their efforts for Wisconsin hockey some 100+ years ago, I would not have had the success I enjoyed during my storied hockey career playing for this legendary program at the University of Wisconsin. This book is truly amazing. Love the old-time hockey stories and photos!”
-Pat Ethier #4
1979/1980 – 1982/1983
Wisconsin Badgers Men’s Hockey Defenseman
Two Time NCAA Champion
buy the book
This is a unique collection of never before seen photos and stories about hockey as it migrated to the UW before it eventually became a varsity sport at Wisconsin in 1922. The game developed quite a following until it all ended in 1935. The book is currently available in paperback for $19.99 plus tax and S&H.