The achievement of three successes in a single game or match, most commonly three goals by one player.
Originated in 1850s cricket when a bowler taking three wickets in consecutive balls received a new hat from his club. The term spread to other sports where three achievements became the standard.
The original cricket hat-trick was so rare that clubs literally bought players new hats to celebrate - now Gordie Howe made hockey's 'Gordie Howe hat-trick' famous (goal, assist, and fight), showing how sports create their own traditions!
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