The Maven dives into the creation of the Rangers' victory song.

As it is today is what it was like in the old – pre-World War II Days, celebrities flocked to big-league hockey at The Garden

Film stars such as Clark Gable, George Raft, Myrna Loy and the Broadway theater crowd loved the ice action whether it was the Blueshirts playing or their MSG neighbors, the New York Americans.

One of the regulars was a famous songwriter, J.Fred Coots, whose tune "Love Letters In The Sand" topped the Hit Parade.

Coots, who was pals with Rangers manager Lester Patrick, liked to sit behind the team's bench and root the likes of Bryan Hextall, Phil Watson and Babe Pratt to victory.

After the Rangers won the Stanley Cup in 1940, Coots was so overwhelmed with joy that he approached Patrick one day. "I'd like to write a song about your championship team, Lester," Coots suggested, "and I'd like your approval."

Patrick, who knew about Coots' list of best-selling songs, instantly agreed. As a result the composer sat down at his upright piano and, in no time at all, composed "THE RANGERS VICTORY SONG."

It made its debut for the 1940-41 season and was enhanced by MSG jazz-organist Gladys (Two D's) Goodding who pumped out the song whenever the Blueshirts skated out for their pre-game workout.

The Maven even remembers the opening lines: "Just keep your stick on the puck and don't get down on your luck, it's 'The Rangers' Victory Song!"

Loved it then and love it now when – once in a while – it's played at home games.