Passion or Profession: Hockey Player

Period: 1961–todate

Gretzky began playing professionally at age 16 and signed with the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers at age 18. He went on to break more than 60 records, including most goals in a season (92), and most points in a season (215). He was voted Most Valuable Player nine times and was also noted for his sportsmanship. In 1988, he transferred to the Los Angeles Kings. He became hockey’s highest-paid player in 1993 when he signed a $25.5 million contract. He played with the New York Rangers from 1997 until his retirement in 1999.