The evolution of the goalie mask in hockey is a fascinating journey from crude leather protectors to personalized works of art. While Jacques Plante is often credited with popularizing the mask, the story of hockey's scariest goalie masks, and the man behind many of them, is an exploration of art, protection, and the psychology of intimidation. That man is Greg Harrison.

In the early days of hockey, goalies often played without any facial protection. In 1927 Elizabeth Graham, a goalie for Queen's University, wore a fencing mask to protect her face. Then, in 1930, Clint Benedict of the Montreal Maroons donned a leather face guard to protect a broken nose, but he abandoned it due to impaired vision. It wasn't until Jacques Plante, in 1959, that a full fiberglass mask became a standard piece of equipment. Plante's mask, closely molded to his face, offered protection against pucks and sticks.

As the game evolved, so did the masks. In the 1960s, experimentation led to the "pretzel mask," offering better ventilation. By the 1970s, masks were becoming more than just protective gear; they were canvases for self-expression. Gerry Cheevers of the Boston Bruins famously drew stitches on his mask to mark where he'd been hit, creating a unique and intimidating look. Jim Rutherford of the Pittsburgh Penguins was the first to have a colored design on his mask.

Enter Greg Harrison, a name synonymous with iconic goalie mask art. Harrison began experimenting with mask making in 1968 while in high school. By the late 1970s, Harrison's designs were worn by an estimated 80% of NHL goalies. Harrison not only crafted the masks but also painted them, setting his work apart. His client list reads like a who's who of goaltending legends. Harrison is also credited with creating the combo mask, a fiberglass mask with a wire cage. In 1978, Harrison created the modern-day goalie mask.

Harrison's artistry transformed the mask into a statement. Goalies could express their personality, team spirit, or simply try to intimidate opponents with their mask designs. From Gilles Gratton's ferocious lion to John Vanbiesbrouck's gleaming Florida Panther, Harrison's work captured the essence of each goalie's persona. His masks weren't just protection; they were a psychological weapon.

Today, the tradition of elaborate goalie mask designs continues. Artists like David Gunnarsson and Sylvie Marsolais carry the torch, creating stunning and intricate designs for today's goaltenders. The goalie mask remains a unique blend of protection and personal expression, a canvas that reflects the individuality and artistry of the person wearing it.