Dit Clapper

One of two players named All-Star at both forward and defence.

Aubrey Victor "Dit" Clapper (February 9, 1907 – January 20, 1978) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player who played his entire professional career for the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1947.

Quick Facts

Hall of Fame: 1947
Born: 9 February 1907
Birthplace: Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
Died: 20 January 1978
Place of death: Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
Position: Right wing/Defence
Shoots: Right
Played for: Boston Bruins

Lore & Background

Clapper was one of only two players to be an All-Star at both forward and defence (the other being Red Kelly). He played right wing on the powerful "Dynamite Line" with linemates Cooney Weiland and Dutch Gainor, contributing to several scoring records in the 1930s. Later in his career, he moved back to defence and was named a First Team NHL All-Star on defence in 1939, 1940 and 1941, becoming one of only two players in NHL history to be named to an All-Star Team at both forward and defence. He served as player-coach of the Bruins and held the coaching position after retiring as a player.

Reader's Guide

Clapper started his hockey career at age 13 in Oshawa, played junior with Toronto Parkdale in 1925, and turned professional with the Boston Tigers of the Canadian-American Hockey League. The Bruins bought his contract in 1927. Originally a defenceman, coach Art Ross moved him to right wing. He scored his first NHL goal ten seconds into his first shift. He was named team captain in 1932 and served until his retirement in 1947. He moved back to defence in 1938, paired with Eddie Shore. He retired for good on February 12, 1947, after a 10–1 win over the New York Rangers. His number #5 sweater was retired that day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What longevity records did he hold?

Clapper was the first non-goaltender to play an NHL game at age forty and the first player to reach twenty seasons with one team. His career span set a new benchmark for durability in professional hockey.

Is his jersey number still retired?

Yes, the Bruins retired his number five jersey to honor his status as a club legend and long-serving captain. It remains one of the most iconic symbols associated with the franchise's early history.