Bob Fowler: An American in Canada

American born Bob Fowler tells an interesting story regarding his life in hockey. Born in Minnesota, Fowler headed north to Canada's Western Junior League in the late 1960s to follow his dream of becoming a professional hockey players. Fowler laced up the skates and excelled as a member of the Estevan Bruins. At the time, Estevan was part of the Boston Bruins minor league system,Fowler was the only American in the junior circuit at a time when many Americans his age were fighting in Vietnam. The Eagan, Minnesota resident routinely endured the "Draft Dodger" taunts from the pro-Canadian crowds. Fowler took a roster position from a some young Canadian hopeful.
However, his junior play never suffered and another oddity followed. Fowler was drafted in 1970 by the powerful Montreal Canadiens. He never had much of a chance to make the team.
According to Fowler, he was the first person signed for the 1972 US Olympic team, but a shoulder injury sidelined him. His replacement was a young player named Mark Howe.
Fowler put a few quality seasons in the IHL (Muskegon Mohawks, Fort Wayne Komets) and in the CHL (Fort Worth Texans, Fort Wort Wings) and in the semi-pro USHL (Sioux City Musketeers).