The Rise of Bobby Farnham: From Undrafted to NHL Enforcer
Introduction
Bobby Farnham is a professional ice hockey player who defied the odds by making it to the National Hockey League (NHL) without being drafted. He clawed his way up through the minor leagues and became a notorious enforcer in the NHL. In this post, we will take a closer look at his journey, his style of play, and his future prospects in the NHL.
Early Life and Career
Bobby Farnham grew up in North Andover, Massachusetts, and started playing hockey at a young age. After completing high school, he opted to play college hockey at Brown University. Farnham started his professional career in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) with the Wheeling Nailers.
The Road to the NHL
After spending several years in the minor leagues, Farnham got his first chance to play in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2014-2015 season. He made 56 appearances for the Penguins, racking up 105 penalty minutes and scoring four goals. Farnham’s aggressive style of play and willingness to fight on the ice earned him a reputation as an enforcer.
Playing Style and Strengths
Farnham is a gritty, hard-working player who is known for his physicality and ability to get under opponents’ skin. He is not afraid to drop the gloves and fight to protect his team, making him a fan favorite. Farnham’s strengths include his speed, tenacity, and work ethic.
Current and Future Team
Farnham was signed by the Montreal Canadiens in 2016, but he only played for their AHL affiliate team, the St. John’s IceCaps. In 2017, he signed with the Springfield Thunderbirds and played in the AHL till 2020. He was supposed to play for Graz in Austria, however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he signed with the Toronto Marlies.
Enforcer Role in Hockey
Farnham’s role as an enforcer on the ice involves protecting his teammates and deterring opposing players from playing too aggressively or targeting his teammates. Enforcers are often the toughest, most intimidating players on the team and are expected to fight when necessary.
Criticism of Enforcer Role
The enforcer role has been criticized in recent years for promoting violence and endangering players’ health. Many argue that enforcers should be phased out of the game altogether, while others believe that enforcers provide an important deterrent against dangerous play on the ice.
Personal Life
Off the ice, Farnham is known for his philanthropic work and commitment to empowering youth through sports. He has been involved in various charitable organizations and has held hockey camps for kids.
Conclusion
Bobby Farnham’s journey from an undrafted player to an NHL enforcer is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game. His physical style of play and willingness to stand up for his teammates have made him a fan favorite. While the enforcer role is a controversial one, players like Farnham continue to thrive in their jobs as protectors and tough guys on the ice.
FAQs
1. What is an enforcer role in hockey?
An enforcer on the ice involves protecting his teammates and deterring opposing players from playing too aggressively or targeting his teammates.
2. How did Bobby Farnham get into NHL?
After completing college, Farnham started his professional career in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) with the Wheeling Nailers. He played in minor league hockey before he got his first chance to play in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2014-2015 season.
3. What is the personal life of Bobby Farnham?
Off the ice, Farnham is known for his philanthropic work and commitment to empowering youth through sports.
4. What are the strengths of Bobby Farnham?
Farnham’s strengths include his speed, tenacity, and work ethic.
5. What is the criticism of the enforcer role?
The enforcer role has been criticized in recent years for promoting violence and endangering players’ health.