Wayne Gretzkys number 99 is an iconic part of hockey history and is well-recognized by fans of the sport.
But why don’t hockey players wear 99 anymore? In this article, we will explore the legacy of Wayne Gretzky, the impact of retiring the number 99, and why 99 is still honored today.
We will also look at other ways to honor Gretzkys legacy and the respect for the military that played a role in the retirement of the number 99.
So, why dont hockey players wear 99 anymore? Read on to find out!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Hockey players don’t wear the number 99 because it is traditionally retired league-wide in honor of Wayne Gretzky, one of the greatest hockey players of all time.
Gretzky wore the number 99 throughout his entire career, and it is seen as a sign of respect to the player’s legacy.
The NHL officially retired the number in 2000, and no player in any of the major professional hockey leagues is allowed to wear the number in any of their games.
The Legacy of Wayne Gretzky
For hockey fans, Wayne Gretzky is more than just a legendary playerhe is an icon.
During his time in the NHL, Gretzky broke multiple records and won countless awards.
He was the first player to score 200 points in a single season, the first to reach 1,000 career points, and holds the record for most goals and assists in a career.
Gretzky’s impact on the game of hockey was so great, that in 2000 the NHL retired the number 99 league-wide in his honor.
Gretzky’s legacy is not only remembered in the NHL.
In 2009, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, further cementing his place in history.
The number 99 has become a symbol of excellence, and an inspiration to players and fans alike.
As a result, it has become a part of the culture of hockey, with many teams honoring Gretzky’s legacy by retiring a banner with his name and number in their home arena.
Gretzky’s legacy is not only associated with hockey, however.
The number 99 has also become a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the military.
In 2009, the Canadian Forces declared the number 99 an official symbol of remembrance, and it is now used to honor the brave men and woman who have served in the Canadian military.
The number 99 is a powerful symbol, one that carries tremendous significance in both the hockey world and beyond.
It is a reminder of the greatness of Wayne Gretzky, as well as a tribute to those who have served in the military.
Despite the fact that no current NHL player is allowed to wear 99, teams continue to honor Gretzky’s legacy in other ways, such as retiring a banner with his name and number in their home arena.
Retiring the Number 99
The number 99 is synonymous with hockey great Wayne Gretzky, so much so that the NHL retired it league-wide in 2000.
This made it the first and only number to be retired across the entire NHL, and no player in the league is currently allowed to wear 99 on their jersey.
Retiring the number 99 is a way for the NHL to honor Gretzky’s legacy and to show their respect for the talented player.
The decision to retire the number 99 was not an easy one, however.
Not only was Gretzky one of the most talented players to ever grace the ice, but he was also a fan favorite.
He was beloved by hockey fans all over the world and his influence on the game was undeniable.
The NHL wanted to ensure that Gretzky’s legacy was remembered for generations to come, and that is why they decided to retire the number 99.
In addition to Gretzky’s legacy, the number 99 is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the military.
The number 99 was first used by the Canadian Military in the First World War to signify that a soldier had reached the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
This made the number 99 a symbol of honor and respect, which is why the NHL decided to retire it as a way to recognize those who have served their country.
Even though no current NHL player is allowed to wear 99, there are other ways for teams to honor Gretzky’s legacy.
For example, many teams have retired a banner with his name and number in their home arena, and they often play a tribute video prior to the start of a game.
These are just some of the ways that teams can pay homage to the great player and ensure that his legacy will live on for many years to come.
Other Ways to Honor Gretzkys Legacy
No current NHL player is allowed to wear 99, but that doesnt mean teams cant honor Wayne Gretzkys legacy in other ways.
For instance, many teams across the NHL have retired the number 99 in their home arena, raising a banner with Gretzkys name and number to commemorate his achievements.
Other teams have erected statues in his likeness, while some have even created special awards to recognize players who embody the spirit of Gretzkys style of play.
In addition to these physical tributes, teams also continue to honor Gretzkys legacy through their play. Gretzkys number 99 may not be on the ice, but his spirit and influence still lives on in the form of the great players who continue to strive for excellence and embody the spirit of the game. The Gretzky Award is a testament to this, given annually to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of the game that Gretzky embodied: speed, skill and determination.
Finally, teams are also honoring Gretzkys legacy off the ice.
Many teams host special events such as Gretzky Night to celebrate his career, while others have established special awards for players who reach particular milestones in their own careers.
By recognizing these accomplishments, teams are paying tribute to Gretzkys influence and legacy.
Overall, even though no player in the NHL is allowed to wear 99, teams across the league are continuing to honor the legacy of Wayne Gretzky in a variety of ways.
From special awards to banners in their home arena, teams are ensuring that Gretzkys memory and impact on the game of hockey will never be forgotten.
Respect for the Military
When it comes to the number 99, it carries a special significance in the world of hockey.
Originally, it was associated with the legendary Wayne Gretzky, who wore it throughout his career.
But the number 99 also has a deeper meaning, as it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the military.
In 2000, the NHL retired the number 99 league-wide in honor of Gretzky, making it the only number to be retired across the league.
This is a fitting tribute to the hockey legend and the sacrifices of military personnel, as the number 99 has come to symbolize courage and strength in the face of adversity.
Though no current NHL players are allowed to wear the number 99, teams have found other ways to honor Gretzky’s legacy.
For instance, some teams have raised banners with Gretzky’s name and number in their home arena.
This is a way for fans to show their appreciation and respect for the great player and the sacrifices made by the military personnel who have served.
It is important to remember that the number 99 carries a deep significance that goes beyond the world of hockey.
It is a reminder of the courage and strength of those who have served in the military, and it is a fitting tribute to the legacy of Wayne Gretzky.
By retiring the number 99 league-wide, the NHL is honoring both the great player and the brave men and women who have served our country.
The Impact of Retiring the Number 99
Retiring the number 99 in the NHL had a profound impact on the entire league.
Not only did it pay homage to Wayne Gretzkys legendary career, but it also served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the military.
For this reason, the number 99 carries a great deal of significance.
Since its retirement, the number 99 has become a symbol of respect for those who have served in the military, as well as a symbol of admiration and appreciation for Wayne Gretzky and his accomplishments.
It has been said that his number is the most recognizable in the sport, and it is a reminder of the greatness he achieved during his playing days.
In addition, the retirement of the number 99 has also made it impossible for any current NHL player to wear it.
This further ensures that Gretzkys legacy will never be forgotten, and his number will remain a symbol of respect and admiration throughout the sport.
Another impact of retiring the number 99 is that it has allowed teams to find other ways to honor Wayne Gretzkys legacy.
Many teams have chosen to retire a banner with his name and number in their home arenas, which serves as a reminder of the greatness he achieved in hockey.
Overall, the retirement of the number 99 has had a significant impact on the NHL and the entire sport of hockey.
It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the military, as well as a symbol of admiration and appreciation for Wayne Gretzky and his accomplishments.
The retirement of the number 99 has allowed teams to find other ways to honor his legacy, and it is a fitting tribute to the greatest hockey player of all time.
Why 99 is Still Honored
The number 99 is still honored in the NHL in a number of ways, despite no current players being allowed to wear it on the ice.
For starters, the league has retired the number league-wide, meaning it can never be worn by any player in the league.
This is a fitting tribute to the legacy of Wayne Gretzky, who famously wore 99 and was one of the most influential players in the history of the sport.
In addition, many teams have chosen to honor Gretzky’s legacy in their own way.
For instance, some teams have chosen to retire a banner with his name and number in their home arena, or even hang a jersey with the number in the rafters.
This allows fans to show their appreciation and respect for the Great One, without any current players having to wear the number.
Other teams have chosen to honor Gretzky with special nights dedicated to him, where they celebrate his accomplishments with the fans.
Finally, the number 99 is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the military, making it a number that carries considerable significance.
This is why it’s important to remember the legacy of Gretzky and all those who served in the military, even if no current players are allowed to wear the number.
What Other NHL Players Have Worn 99?
Before the NHL officially retired the number 99 in 2000, a number of different players had worn it.
Most notably, Wayne Gretzky donned it for 20 seasons, during which time he became the greatest hockey player of all time and the most recognizable member of the NHL.
Other prominent NHL players who have worn 99 include Mario Lemieux, Eric Lindros, and Mark Messier.
In addition, a number of Hall of Fame players, such as Stan Mikita, Bobby Orr, and Gordie Howe, have also worn the number.
Although the number 99 is most closely associated with Gretzky, it has also been worn by a few other players.
The first player to wear it was Mel Hill, who donned it for the Boston Bruins in 1932.
Other players who have worn the number over the years include Tony Amonte, Keith Tkachuk, Rob Blake, and Shane Doan.
The number 99 has become so iconic that it has been featured in pop culture, with several movies and TV shows making references to it.
One of the most famous examples is the movie “The Mighty Ducks,” which features a team of youths wearing the number 99 jerseys.
The number has also been featured in the video game series “NHL ’94” and “NHL ’99,” as well as the cartoon series “The Simpsons.”.
The number 99 is a reminder of the greatness of Wayne Gretzky and all the other NHL players who have worn it.
It is a symbol of the hard work, dedication, and skill that these players have displayed throughout their careers.
While no current NHL player is allowed to wear 99, teams can still honor Gretzky’s legacy by retiring a banner with his name and number in their home arena.
Final Thoughts
The number 99, worn by hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, is a symbol of greatness, respect, and admiration.
The NHL’s decision to retire his number league-wide in 2000 was a fitting tribute to Gretzky’s legacy, as well as a respectful acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by those in the military.
Even though no current NHL player is allowed to wear 99, teams can still honor Gretzky’s legacy in other ways, such as retiring a banner with his name and number in their home arena.
It is important for us to remember the impact Gretzky had on the game of hockey and to continue to honor his legacy for generations to come.