The China Wall

When Johnny Bower was still a youngster, his father told him that if he worked hard every day and put passion into his profession, it would pay off in the long run. It was good advice, especially the part about the long run. For more than a decade, Bower toiled in hockey's minor leagues, waiting for his chance at the big time. It wasn't until he was 33, an age when most players are winding down their careers, that he finally debuted in the NHL. Bower's story is one of determination and self-belief. It offers evidence that greatness can be achieved when one refuses to give up on one's goals. “Johnny Bower is one of those guys who is just like part of the family. You'd be proud to have him as a neighbour.” —Gordie Howe “I think everyone in the dressing room knew why we won the Cup. It was those two old coots in net—Johnny Bower and Terry Sawchuk. They carried us to that Cup.”— former Toronto Maple Leaf teammate, Ron Ellis