Inside the Press Box: Stan Fischler

Storming the Crease is conducting a series of interviews with people who cover (or work for) the Caps and the NHL. You can find a link to the series archives on the right sidebar. Today's 17th installment: "The Maven" himself, Stan Fischler.

1. How did you get your nickname, "The Maven?"

My editor at Hockey Illustrated magazine in 1971 liked a radio commercial for Vita Herring with the announcer called the Herring Maven. He figured Hockey Maven would follow well. And it did!

2. How did the "Fischler Report" get started and what are your goals for the publication?

The "Fischler Report" began when a couple of owners, especially Howard Baldwin, then with the Penguins, felt that owners needed to receive a concise look at the NHL for the week. He was one of the first subscribers along with Lou Lamoriello and Gary Bettman. The goals for the publication are to provide info, opinions and to make money.

3. Which of your books is your favorite and why?

My favorite book is "Metro Ice," a detailed history of New York hockey from the 19th century to the present. It has everything from precise details, stories and tremendous photos dating to 1896.

4. What are some of your favorite hockey memories?

Favorite hockey memories include watching the U.S. Coast Guard team play at old MSG during World War II; the Islanders winning four Stanley Cups; being at Cup wins in 1961 in Detroit when Chicago won its last Cup and a year later in Chicago when the Leafs won their first of three straight Cups. Also, the Devils Cup wins and interviewing Alex Ovechkin last week on Long Island.

5. What are some of your interests outside of work?

My interests include bicycle-riding, paddle handball, reading non-fiction; telling jokes, hearing jokes; hiking, speed-walking and yelling at referees.