Tommy Phillips

Who was Tommy Phillips?

Thomas Neil Phillips was a Canadian professional ice hockey left winger. Like other players of the time, Phillips played for several different teams and leagues, and is most notable for his time with the Kenora Thistles; he also played with the Montreal Hockey Club, the Ottawa Hockey Club, the Toronto Marlboros and the Vancouver Millionaires. Phillips participated in six challenge series for the Stanley Cup, the championship trophy of hockey; his team won the Cup twice: the Montreal Hockey Club in 1903 and the Kenora Thistles in January 1907, whom he captained. One of the best defensive forwards of his era, he was also known for his all around skill, particularly his strong shot. His younger brother, Russell, also played for the Thistles, and was a member of the team when they won the Stanley Cup. When the Hockey Hall of Fame was founded in 1945, Phillips was one of the original nine inductees.