Joe Fisher

In the town of Medicine Hat, a young Joseph Henry (Joe) Fisher made history as the first local to skate in the National Hockey League (NHL). He donned the blades for 64 games over four seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, winning a Stanley Cup Championship in 1943.He continued to make waves in the hockey world, participating in the inaugural All-Star Game and later securing the Allan Cup with the Calgary Stampeder Senior Hockey Team in 1946. From 1948 to 1951, he was a key player for the Medicine Hat Senior Tigers, showcasing his undeniable talent and leadership on the ice.

Joe's love for the sport exceeded his playing days. He had a vision to bring a competitive junior hockey scene to his hometown and he worked tirelessly to bring this dream to fruition. In 1970, Joe, alongside George Maser and Rod Carry, successfully secured a Western Hockey League franchise, the Medicine Hat Tigers. The timing was perfect; Medicine Hat was in the midst of constructing a new arena, and the team was already equipped with a coach and scouting system. Under Joe's leadership, the Medicine Hat Tigers not only took shape but thrived, becoming one of the most respected and successful franchises in the Canadian Hockey League.

Joe's knowledge of hockey and his wisdom brought credibility to Medicine Hat's bid for an expansion team. His ability to scout and recruit talented players was unmatched, leading to the Tigers' back-to-back Memorial Cup victories. Players like Tom Lysiak, Lanny McDonald, Don Murdoch, and Kelly Hrudey, who were discovered and mentored by Joe, went on to have distinguished NHL careers.

Beyond the rink, Joe served in the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1944 and was a business owner known for his fairness. His community spirit was evident through his active participation in local service clubs like the Shriners, Masons, and Kiwanis. He also devoted countless hours to the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede, where he served as President and was honored as an Honorary Director.

Joe Fisher’s legacy in Medicine Hat is marked not just by his sports achievements but also by his dedication to the community and his pioneering spirit in the world of hockey. As we celebrate his induction into the Sports Wall of Fame, we remember Joe as a visionary who transformed his passion for hockey into a lasting contribution to his hometown and the sport itself.