Irvine Wallace Bailey, a Canadian ice hockey legend, was born on March 7, 1903, in Canada. He was drawn to the sport at an early age and began playing competitively as a young boy. Bailey's talent on the ice quickly caught the attention of coaches and scouts, leading to a promising future in the world of hockey.
After completing his primary education, Irvine Bailey enrolled at the University of Toronto. His time at the university was pivotal in shaping his skills as a hockey player. Bailey honed his technique and developed a deep understanding of the game, laying the foundation for his future success in the sport.
In November of 1926, Irvine Bailey signed with the Toronto St. Patricks of the National Hockey League. The team would later be renamed the Toronto Maple Leafs, where Bailey would spend eight memorable seasons. Known for his exceptional skill and fierce competitiveness on the ice, Bailey quickly became a fan favorite and a key player for the Maple Leafs.
However, Bailey's career took a tragic turn in 1933 when he suffered a devastating injury during a game against the Boston Bruins. In a heated altercation, Bailey fractured his skull and was forced to retire from professional hockey. Despite the premature end to his playing days, Bailey's legacy in the sport would endure for decades to come.
Following his retirement from professional hockey, Irvine Bailey remained involved in the sport as a coach for the University of Toronto Varsity Blues men's ice hockey team. Additionally, Bailey worked as a timekeeper at Maple Leaf Gardens, further cementing his place in the hockey community.
Outside of hockey, Bailey was a devoted family man. He was married to Mabel, and together, they raised a son named Garnet "Ace" Bailey. Tragically, Ace Bailey lost his life in the September 11 attacks when United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the World Trade Center.
In 1975, Irvine Wallace Bailey was posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to the sport. Additionally, Bailey holds the distinction of being the first professional sports player to have a jersey number retired in his honor, a testament to his lasting impact on ice hockey.
Bailey's playing days came to an abrupt end after a collision with Eddie Shore during a match. The force of the impact caused Bailey to hit his head on the ice, resulting in the career-ending injury that marked the close of an illustrious chapter in Canadian hockey history.