Daily Dad News

NHL Team Detroit Red Wings’ Father-Son Bonding Trip Excites Players

January 5, 2012

As one of the National Hockey League’s most popular teams, the Detroit Red Wings have hoisted the coveted Stanley Cup trophy several times over the years. However a more recent tradition for the team has emerged with the fathers of the hockey players joining their sons on a weekend road trip.

This coming weekend, Red Wing players will have their dads and mentors accompany them as part of an annual father-son tradition for the team as they hit the road to take on the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday and the 2010 champ Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday. The tradition began during the Red Wings’ 2005-2006 season by head coach Mike Babcock as a way help players adjust to the grueling rigors of the hockey season.

“It’s a great thing for us," Babcock said. "This year, we’re going to Toronto and Chicago, Original Six (cities). We’re going to the Hall of Fame the first night. It will be great for our guys. We’re excited about that. To me it just brings energy. I think it’s real important.”

Rookie forward Cory Emmerton’s dad lives two hours north of Detroit in Ontario and the rising player is ready to connect with his dad again as he did as a younger player. “Having all the dads around will be one of those weird feelings like you’re playing minor hockey again," said Emmerton. "He’ll probably be telling you what to do, what you’re doing wrong. I’m looking forward to it.”

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