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Today in History: Lord Stanley pledges award for top hockey club

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 18, 1892, Lord Stanley of Preston, the Governor General of Canada, announced his intention to donate a trophy for the country's top amateur ice hockey club. This award, later named the Stanley Cup, became the oldest professional sports trophy in North America and is now awarded annually to the NHL playoff champion.

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Story summary

On March 18, 1892, Lord Stanley of Preston, the Governor General of Canada, announced his intention to donate a trophy for the country's top amateur ice hockey club. This award, later named the Stanley Cup, became the oldest professional sports trophy in North America and is now awarded annually to the NHL playoff champion.