Maurice “Rocket” Richard — biographical portrait
A Documentary Film

Maurice “Rocket” Richard

1921 – 2000

Maurice "Rocket" Richard Maurice Joseph Henri Richard Quick Facts Attribute Details Born August 4, 1921, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Died May 27, 2000 (aged 78), Montreal, Quebec, Canada Nickname "Rocket" Position Right Wing Shoots Left Height 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) Weight 180 lb (82 kg) NHL Career 1942–1960 (18...

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79
Years of Life
7
Chapters
Elite
Status

Chapters

01

Origins

The Beginning

Maurice "Rocket" Richard was a Canadian professional ice hockey player who became one of the most iconic figures in hockey history and a cultural symbol for French Canadians. Playing his entire 18-season NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens from 1942 to 1960, Richard revolutionized the...

02

The Rise

Building a Legacy

Maurice Richard made his NHL debut with the **Montreal Canadiens** on **October 31, 1942**, against the Boston Bruins at the age of 21—relatively old for a rookie by today's standards. His first season showed flashes of brilliance despite modest statistics.

03

The Work

Defining Moments

Maurice Richard's list of achievements represents some of the most impressive accomplishments in their field. These milestones reflect years of dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

04

The Peak

Greatest Achievements

Maurice Richard earned his nickname not merely from his speed, but from the **explosive, unstoppable force** he brought to every shift. Unlike the graceful skaters who dominated hockey before him, Richard played with an intensity that bordered on ferocity—changing how the forward position...

05

The Legacy

Lasting Impact

Maurice Richard married **Lucille Norchet** on **September 12, 1942**, just months before making his NHL debut. Their marriage lasted **58 years** until Richard's death in 2000, making it one of the most enduring partnerships in professional sports history.

Richard **Maurice Joseph Henri Richard** ## Quick Facts | Attribute | Details | |-----------|---------| | **Born** | August 4, 1921, Montreal, Quebec, Canada | | **Died** | May 27, 2000 (aged 78), Montreal, Quebec, Canada | | **Nickname** |

— Maurice “Rocket” Richard

| | **Position** | Right Wing | | **Shoots** | Left | | **Height** | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) | | **Weight** | 180 lb (82 kg) | | **NHL Career** | 1942–1960 (18 seasons) | | **Team** | Montreal Canadiens | ## Summary Maurice

— Maurice “Rocket” Richard

The origin of Richard's famous nickname has multiple versions. The most widely accepted story credits **Ray Getliffe**, a teammate with the Montreal Senior Canadiens, who reportedly remarked that Richard

— Early Life and Background

during a practice session. The name stuck, perfectly capturing his explosive speed and powerful skating style. Another version suggests sportswriter **Dink Carroll** of the Montreal Gazette coined the nickname after witnessing Richard's blazing acceleration. Regardless of its exact origin,

— Early Life and Background

I will take my punishment and come back next year to help the club win the Cup.

— NHL Career

Innovations

Year Title Role/Impact Type
1960 : Won championships in 1944, 1946, 1953, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, and 1960 - Competition Achievement
1921 Quick Facts Competition Achievement
1944 Key Highlights Competition Achievement
1921 Montreal Roots Competition Achievement
1930 Junior Hockey Development Competition Achievement
1942 Marriage to Lucille Competition Achievement
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