Bob Woytowich


Robert Ivan Woytowich was a Canadian ice hockey defenceman. He played for the National Hockey League from 1964 to 1972, and in the World Hockey Association from 1972 to 1976.

Playing career

Woytowich started his National Hockey League career with the Boston Bruins in 1964. He would also play for the Minnesota North Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings. He left for World Hockey Association after the 1972 season. He would play for the Winnipeg Jets and Indianapolis Racers.
During Woytowich's tenure in Pittsburgh, he became a favorite of fans who formed a fan club called Woytowich's Polish Army. The club camped in the upper reaches of the Pittsburgh Civic Arena during weekday home games and filled an entire section during Saturday home games. Despite its name, one did not have to be of Polish descent to be a member of the Polish Army. Members had to have the money to purchase a general admission ticket and were forbidden from saying anything nice about Penguins opponents.
On July 30, 1988, Woytowich suffered a heart attack while driving his car near Winnipeg. The car was involved in an accident and he died.

Awards and achievements