Hockey History

John Ross Robertson. Photo submitted by Tim Miller.

Robertson Cup presented to top amateur teams
Several Hamilton teams recipients of distinguish award

Known for many community and philanthropic endeavors, John Ross Robertson gave in many areas. He started the Toronto Evening Telegram newspaper, was instrumental in establishing the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children, and was on the executive of the Ontario Hockey Association.

A strong advocate of keeping hockey at an amateur level, Robertson was steadfast in his convictions after joining the OHA in 1897. In 1899 he became president of the OHA, and after stepping down in 1907, he donated three trophies bearing his name and presented to the top OHA clubs in the senior, intermediate, and junior divisions.

When the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association was formed in 1915, Robertson was named its honorary president. In 1947 he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in the Builders category.

A Hamilton-based team has won the Robertson Trophy three times, as the Hamilton Tigers in 1931, the 1962 Hamilton Red Wings, and the 1976 Hamilton Steelhawks. The first team was an Allan Cup contender, while the 1962 and 1976 teams were in the Memorial Cup. Interestingly, the 1946 Tigers, which went to the Allan Cup finals but lost to the Calgary Stampeders, were passed over for the award by St. Michaels.

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