Slap Shot

Actor Paul Newman played Reg Dunlop in the 1977 film "Slap Shot,'' parts of which were filmed in the War Memorial.

( Associated Press)

Syracuse, N.Y. — Pro hockey has changed a lot since the legendary movie "Slap Shot'' was filmed 40 years ago.

Various rough-housing teams and players have done their parts to re-create the fighting mayhem portrayed in that movie, but the changing rules of the sport have all but eliminated such sideshows.

For one night this spring, however, the look and feel of the flick will come to life on the ice of the War Memorial.

Syracuse Crunch owner Howard Dolgon said at a fan forum Saturday night that his team has been given permission to wear the replica jerseys of the fictional Charlestown Chiefs squad from that film. Syracuse will bust them out March 31 for a game against Toronto.

Dolgon had to get permission from Universal Studios to wear the sweater because that company owns the rights. Dolgon said the Crunch will be the first team to wear the replica jerseys in a game.

Parts of that movie were filmed in the War Memorial. That tie-in, plus the 40th birthday of the film, made Syracuse a natural fit for the sweaters.

Dolgon said the jerseys will be auctioned after the game.