Al Secord: Power Forward with Punch

Al Secord was one of the most unique and rugged forwards in National Hockey League history. Born on March 3, 1958, in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, Secord combined scoring ability with physical toughness, a rare blend that made him stand out in the 1980s. He played a total of 766 NHL games over parts of 12 seasons, most notably with the Chicago Blackhawks. Known for both his fists and his finesse, Secord remains one of the most iconic power forwards of his era.

Drafted 16th overall by the Boston Bruins in the 1978 NHL Amateur Draft, Secord wasted no time making an impression. In his rookie season with Boston, he racked up 16 goals and 11 assists for 27 points in 80 games, while also compiling 128 penalty minutes. However, his greatest years came after being traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in December 1980. The move to Chicago unlocked his offensive potential while giving him more freedom to play his physical brand of hockey.

Dominance in Chicago

Secord's breakout season came in 1981-82, when he scored 44 goals and added 31 assists for 75 points while amassing 303 penalty minutes. This made him the first player in NHL history to record over 40 goals and 300 penalty minutes in a single season. He followed it up with a career-best 54-goal, 86-point campaign in 1982-83, becoming one of the league's top scoring threats. His ability to fight, hit, and score made him a nightmare for opposing defenses and a fan favorite in Chicago.

Injuries hampered much of his 1983-84 and 1984-85 seasons, but he returned to form with another 40-goal season in 1985-86. Throughout his time with the Blackhawks, Secord was often paired with dynamic center Denis Savard, forming a lethal combination of speed, skill, and grit. His presence created space for linemates and served as a deterrent against physical intimidation from other teams. Despite his bruising style, Secord consistently found ways to contribute on the scoresheet.

Later Years and Retirement

After leaving Chicago, Secord had brief stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Philadelphia Flyers. Though his offensive production dipped during these years, he remained a physical force and veteran presence in the locker room. He retired from the NHL after the 1989-90 season, finishing with 273 goals, 222 assists, and 2,093 penalty minutes. His dual-threat game had a lasting impact on how power forwards were evaluated and utilized in the NHL.

In addition to his NHL success, Secord represented Canada in the 1981 Canada Cup, showcasing his skills on an international stage. His willingness to stand up for teammates, combined with his goal-scoring ability, earned him respect from players, coaches, and fans alike. While never the most polished skater or playmaker, his determination and toughness carried him to a distinguished professional career.

Life After Hockey

Following his retirement, Secord pursued a career in aviation, becoming a commercial airline pilot based in the United States. This career shift showcased his discipline and adaptability, traits that had served him well during his time on the ice. He has also participated in numerous alumni events and remains closely tied to the Chicago Blackhawks organization. His presence continues to be felt in hockey circles, particularly among fans of the rough-and-tumble style of 1980s hockey.

Al Secord's legacy is cemented as one of the rare players who could change a game with either a goal or a glove drop. He epitomized the role of the power forward at a time when physicality and offense were rarely combined at such a high level. His name still evokes respect among longtime NHL fans, especially those who remember the electric energy he brought to every shift. For many, Secord remains a symbol of old-school hockey's golden age.