Eric Godard, Canadian ice hockey player

Eric Godard, born on March 7, 1980, is a Canadian who carved out a notable career as a professional ice hockey right winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known primarily for his rugged physical presence on the ice, Godard quickly established himself as a formidable enforcer throughout his playing days before his retirement from the professional game.

His NHL Journey and the Enforcer Role

Godard's NHL career saw him don the jerseys of three prominent teams: the New York Islanders, the Calgary Flames, and the Pittsburgh Penguins. In an era when physicality was a more prominent aspect of the game, players like Godard served a crucial, albeit often misunderstood, role. An enforcer in ice hockey is typically a player whose main responsibility is to deter opposing teams from taking liberties with their skilled teammates, often by engaging in fights. Godard embraced this role wholeheartedly, characterized by his robust, physical style of play and his willingness to "drop the gloves"—a common hockey idiom for initiating a fight—whenever necessary to protect his team. His dedication to this demanding position earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike.

"The Hand of God": A Fitting Moniker

His distinctive playing style and memorable surname led to his well-known nickname: "The Hand of God." This playful twist on his last name perfectly encapsulated his forceful and often decisive impact on games, particularly when defending his teammates or asserting his physical dominance on the ice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eric Godard

Who is Eric Godard?

Eric Godard is a Canadian retired professional ice hockey right winger who played as an enforcer in the National Hockey League (NHL).

When was Eric Godard born?

He was born on March 7, 1980.

What teams did Eric Godard play for in the NHL?

Godard played for the New York Islanders, the Calgary Flames, and the Pittsburgh Penguins during his professional career.

What was Eric Godard's playing style?

He was renowned for his physical style of play, serving as an enforcer who regularly "dropped the gloves" to engage in fights, protecting his teammates and maintaining a strong physical presence on the ice.

What is Eric Godard's nickname?

His nickname is "The Hand of God," a clever play on his surname that became synonymous with his impactful physical presence in games.