<P>Steeped in a history and tradition that spans three centuries, the Stanley Cup is without question the most unique and storied trophy in all of professional sports. Ross Bernstein, the bestselling author of more than 40 sports books, interviewed more than 100 current and former NHL players and coaches who have had the unique and distinct privilege of raising Lord Stanley's holy grail above their heads after winning hockey's ultimate prize. The book features in-depth interviews, rich history, and inspirational stories of determination and perseverance from players and coaches of all eras, including Gordie Howe, Bobby Hull, Scotty Bowman, Patrick Roy, Steve Yzerman, Dustin Byfuglien, Joe Sakic, and many more. <I>Raising Stanley</I> features more than just tales about the ecstasy of winning, however. It's about the honor, courage, and sacrifice shared with teammates; the playoff beard; the dramatic Game 7s; the closed-door captain's practices; the coaching wisdom, and the "playoff make-up" (the cuts, stitches, and bruises that inevitably appear on playoff faces). Superstars of yesterday and today also share funny and poignant behind-the-scenes stories, from bench-clearing brawls to rookie hazing initiations to hilarious tales about where some of the game's biggest names have taken the Cup during the off-season.