Bring Back Bobby!

With the news that the Bruins are going to keep the ad agency that gave them those great 'bear' commercials (if you haven't seen them, click here for my fav, h/t to Kukla for the news), I figured it was time to bring back Bobby.

MSG ran a few of those Bobby Granger commercials a few years back, then inexplicably ended the campaign. Most fans that I've spoken to got a kick out of them, I know I did. I put my personal fav below. But with a new season approaching, it is time for a new MSG ad campaign, and why not use Bobby? He was the quintessential everyfan who was funny and actually *gulp* showed some personality! What a concept, MSG and the Garden having personality. And Joe Micheletti and his bad puns don't count because he is horrendous. I've been asked, who do I loathe more: Tom Poti, Marek Malik or Wade Redden? Poti wins that one hands down but put him up against Micheletti and I would have a tough time deciding. Worst broadcaster in the biz.

But I digress.

Those spots were entertaining, interesting and started conversation. We would always ask, 'did you see the new one?' But they ran out real quick and stopped being aired a few years back. The last time I saw Bobby in person was two seasons ago when he was being kicked out of the Garden for confronting an obnoxious away fan (Flyers or Isles, I can't recall). Surely that couldn't have been what has kept them from producing his commercials; the Garden has gotten multiple lawsuits for much, much, much, much worse.

Let's face it, the commercials couldn't have cost too much to make and they were fun, and that is what hockey is supposed to be.

 "Bring Back Bobby! The Legacy and Impact of Bobby Fischer in Chess"

Bobby Fischer is a name synonymous with chess greatness. Born on March 9, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert James Fischer, known as Bobby, became one of the most iconic and influential chess players in history. His story is one of unparalleled talent, fierce determination, and controversy. In this article, we will delve into the life and achievements of Bobby Fischer, examine his lasting impact on the world of chess, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this enigmatic chess prodigy.

Section 1: The Early Years of Bobby Fischer

1. A Chess Prodigy

Bobby Fischer displayed exceptional aptitude for chess at a young age. By the age of six, he was playing competitive chess, and at thirteen, he became the youngest ever United States Chess Champion.

2. Rise to Stardom

Fischer's rise to international stardom came in the late 1950s and early 1960s when he competed in and won several major tournaments, including the 1958 Portorož Interzonal and the 1960 Leipzig Olympiad.

3. Quest for the World Chess Championship

Fischer's ultimate goal was to become the World Chess Champion. He relentlessly pursued this dream, working on his game with unrivaled dedication and precision.

Section 2: Fischer's Impact on Chess

1. Chess Pedagogy

Fischer's chess games and annotations contributed significantly to chess literature. His book, "My 60 Memorable Games," remains a classic and is still studied by aspiring chess players.

2. The Fischer Clock

Bobby Fischer's influence extended to the rules of chess. His demand for a chess clock with increment time controls led to the development of the Fischer clock, now widely used in chess tournaments.

3. The Fischer Boom

Fischer's success sparked a surge of interest in chess in the United States and around the world. Chess clubs and organizations experienced increased memberships, and the game gained a cultural prominence it had never known before.

Section 3: The World Chess Championship Match (1972)

1. The Match of the Century

The pinnacle of Fischer's career came in 1972 when he faced Boris Spassky, the reigning World Chess Champion from the Soviet Union, in Reykjavik, Iceland. The match was highly publicized and is often referred to as the "Match of the Century."

2. Fischer's Victory

In a dramatic and tension-filled series of games, Fischer emerged victorious, becoming the World Chess Champion. His victory had geopolitical significance during the Cold War era.

3. Controversy and Retreat

Following his triumph, Fischer's career took a controversial turn. Disputes with chess officials, delays in defending his title, and unconventional demands led to his withdrawal from competitive chess for nearly twenty years.

FAQs: Bobby Fischer and His Chess Legacy

Let's address some frequently asked questions about Bobby Fischer and his impact on chess:

1. Why did Bobby Fischer retire from chess for so long?

Fischer cited various reasons for his extended absence from chess, including disputes over tournament conditions, dissatisfaction with the World Chess Federation (FIDE), and personal reasons.

2. What made Fischer's playing style unique?

Fischer was known for his exceptional understanding of chess principles, a deep opening repertoire, and an ability to calculate variations accurately. He was renowned for his tenacity and desire to win.

3. How has Fischer's legacy influenced modern chess?

Fischer's impact on modern chess is profound. His emphasis on opening preparation, meticulous analysis, and fighting spirit has become standard practice among top-level players. The Fischer clock and his contributions to chess literature also continue to shape the game.

Bobby Fischer's legacy in the world of chess is undeniable. His incredible talent, dedication to the game, and iconic World Chess Championship victory in 1972 have left an indelible mark on the sport. Despite the controversies and personal challenges he faced, Fischer's contributions to chess pedagogy, his role in the chess boom of the 20th century, and his influence on modern chess continue to be celebrated and studied by players and enthusiasts alike. Bobby Fischer's name will forever be associated with brilliance, innovation, and the quest for chess excellence.