I went to the Oxford English Dictionary to learn the history of the term "hat trick". Definition 1 is irrelevant to us. 2. Cricket. The feat of a bowler who takes three wickets by three successive balls: considered to entitle him to be presented by his club with a new hat or some equivalent. 1882 Daily Tel. 19 May He thus accomplished the feat known as the 'hat trick' and was warmly applauded. From the OED supplement: 1887 J. Lilleywhite Cricketer's companion 181 Having on one occasion taken six wickets in seven balls, thus performing the hat-trick successfully. (oops, that was supposed to be 1877--lms) b. Hence gen., a three fold feat in other sports or activities. 1909 Daily Chron. 12 Aug 9/2 ( a quote from horse racing. No hockey references provided, but remember the OED is primarily Brit. English) Linguistically yours, Lisa