The Hockey Dynamic is a thoroughly good read which will appeal to all hockey lovers, but will also be of great interest to general sports fans. Gavin writes in a style where his enthusiasm for hockey shines through honestly and clearly.
His years of experience across the world lend authority to the text supporting the widely held view that he has always encompassed the many changes that have influenced the sport's development over the last half century.
The Hockey Dynamic successfully juxtaposes the role of individual pioneers, previously unheard of, with the ongoing technological forces in the game. This is a big book in terms of its coverage across the continents, even promoting the lessons that hockey has learned from rival sports. Yet, the personal emphasis is never forgotten as he interviews the 1972 Ugandan Olympic captain sent to the Games, but banished on his return, swaps views in an enlightening exchange with German Director of Coaching, Heino Knuf, and tells the extraordinary story of hockey video and a Californian playboy surfer!
Gavin explores in detail the introduction of astroturf and the scientific evolution of goalkeeping kit; topics which are primarily aimed at those who have played hockey, but also at all sports enthusiasts (especially those that have moved from amateur to professional) who will find substance and value in his treatment of video analysis, academies and institutes, umpiring and rule progressions and governing body politics.
This book is very much written in the third person, but it is very difficult to shy away from the conclusion that the author has been intrinsically involved with the fascinating themes that make up this objective story.
A highly recommended read from one of hockey's great personalities and thinkers.
Gavin's book is available to buy now from online retailers including Amazon (ISBN 9781591642381).
Editor: the opinions presented in this article are those of the individual assigned to review this particular book. They do not represent the views of The Hockey Museum.