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I’ve spent all day trying to find the right words to explain how Dale Hawerchuk impacted my life. I’m still not sure I have them, but here’s a few thoughts. I had the pleasure of working with Dale for two seasons in Barrie. He was always genuine, honest and fair. #HawerchukStrong https://twitter.com/ohlbarriecolts/status/1295791612149235712
It’s funny, Dale is remembered by most for being a world-class player, a Hockey Hall of Famer, and rightly so. But I never saw Dale play (although he put the puck through my feet in 3-on-3 one day more times than I care to admit). To me, Dale was a coach and a damn good one.
Dale was never too good for anyone. At many rinks, we would get off the bus to the sight of fans and collectors standing outside waiting for an autograph. He always stopped, even if it was the same people multiple times. He always made the time. Not some of the time. Every time.
Story time on the bus with Dale was something you didn’t want to miss. Those behind-the-scenes stories from 30+ years ago either had you in awe or rolling on the floor laughing. I might miss that most. When Dale spoke, you wanted to listen.
I’ll always be thankful Dale taught me the little things about how to be a pro, always with his subtle approach or a quiet jab as a joke. He always let @JimMcKnight11 and I do our jobs without interference.
But finally, I was always grateful that Dale cared about us as people. Each year at Christmas he would casually slip a couple of brown bills in my hand and say “you guys work long hours, make sure you take your old lady out for dinner”.
Rest in peace, coach. You’ll be missed.
Rest in peace, coach. You’ll be missed.
