Do Stanley Cup Owners Receive Permanent Trophies? Understanding the Tradition of Championship Rings

Winning the Stanley Cup is a significant milestone in the history of the National Hockey League (NHL). While players and coaches rightly receive the coveted championship rings, the question often arises regarding the ownership group. Do Stanley Cup owners get Stanley Cup rings? Yes, they typically do, and this article explores why.

The Golden Rule - Who Has the Gold Makes the Rules

The tradition of championship rings extends beyond players and coaches. As the Golden Rule states, 'he who has the gold makes the rules.' In the context of the Stanley Cup, team owners have the financial resources and decision-making authority to determine who receives these rings. They often incentivize their key personnel and supporters to keep them loyal and engaged.

For instance, when the Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup in 2011, Bruceasset Management Corporation's ownership decided to distribute 504 rings. This gesture acknowledged everyone connected to the team's success, from the players and coaching staff to the staff, season ticket holders, and even staff members. Similarly, the Vegas Golden Knights ensured that Carnell Johnson, the team's anthem singer, received a ring, highlighting inclusivity and team spirit.

Custom-Designed and Symbolic

Stanley Cup rings are custom-designed and symbolize the achievement of winning the championship, which is deeply significant for the organization. They are unique, often featuring the team's logo, the year of the championship, and other personal or team-specific elements. Custom design is a way to honor the contributions of all involved in the team's success, including management, ownership, and supporters.

A Matter of Principals and Finances

Ownership groups spend a considerable amount of money on these rings. According to historical data, owners typically spend between $500,000 to $700,000 on rings for the Stanley Cup champions, depending on the number of rings distributed and the cost. In the 2017-18 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the playoff pool was $15 million, with each player sharing in approximately $150,000. This financial investment reflects their commitment to the team's success and their desire to celebrate it with everyone involved.

While the financial aspect is crucial, the emotional value cannot be understated. Winning the Stanley Cup is a dream for many players, and the rings serve as tangible and symbolic reminders of the achievement. Similarly, for owners, having a ring serves as a personal token of their involvement in the team's success. This gesture reinforces the importance of the team as a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders.

Historical Context and Financial Breakdown

For context, the Stanley Cup champions, including the owner and management team, benefit from a significant financial windfall. Historically, the playoff pool can vary, but in recent years, it has averaged around $15 million. Players typically share in this pool based on their performance and contract negotiations. Ownership, on the other hand, gains financially through ticket sales, seating capacity, and broadcasting rights. For the Stanley Cup champions, there are often at least 8 home games, generating approximately $10 million per home game. Multiplying this by 8 gives around $80 million. Adding broadcasting and other revenue sources further boosts the financial benefits.

Given these substantial financial rewards, it's understandable why owners would want a personal ring as a form of recognition. Not only is the ring a symbol of their commitment to the team, but it also serves as a personal remembrance of their successful season. Hence, while the primary beneficiaries are often the players and coaches, it's not uncommon for owners to also receive rings as part of their celebration.

In conclusion, Stanley Cup owners do receive championship rings, reflecting the team's collective success and ownership's desire to recognize all contributors to the team's achievements. This tradition not only honors the triumphs but also reinforces the collaborative nature of professional sports.