We have rummaged through our archives for this gallery of true greats.
They are just some of the outstanding imports signed by a number of coaches who have built trophy winning teams around them.
Every fan will have their own 30 picks from the game’s modern era – the list is far from complete, but we hope the pictures from the past few decades spark memories of great games rinkside during the Ne'er holiday.
1. Fife Flyers: 30 great imports
Dave Stoyanovich sits on the boards after defeat at the 1987 British championship finals at Wembley (Pic: Bill Dickman) Photo: Fife Free Press
2. Fife Flyers: 30 great imports
1999 - record powerplay goalscorer, and the undisputed master of the boards, Russell Monteith in action (Pic: Bill Dickman) Photo: Fife Free Press
3. Fife Flyers: 30 great imports
Defenceman Al Sims who brought NHL pedigree to the ice pad after spells with Boston Bruins, Hartford Whalers and LA Kings. One of the true stars of the sport's Heineken era. (Pic: Bill Dickman) Photo: Bill Dickman
4. Fife Flyers: 30 great imports
Danny Brown 1985 - part of the legendary Plumb Line which delivered the British championship trophy and ignited the sport in Fife Photo: na