George Gund III forever changed San Jose’s sports history when he brought hockey to the South Bay. Gund’s connection to hockey runs deep: he grew up playing on neighborhood ponds in Cleveland; suited up for city league teams throughout the U.S.; and together with his brother Gordon owned the California Golden Seals (later the Minnesota North Stars).  In 1990, the NHL awarded George an expansion franchise – the San Jose Sharks.  The Sharks played its first two seasons off-site before dropping the puck here in 1993.  Since then, these walls have been home to thrilling playoff wins, the NHL All-Star Game, and countless other exciting events in sports and entertainment. 

George Gund III was inducted into the San Jose Sports Hall of Fame in 2008.