Hockey is a game of the brave, a sport for powerful and resilient men who know neither fear nor pain. As the saying goes, “Real men play hockey,” and this has never been up for debate. For decades, Team Canada has been a powerhouse in international hockey, boasting 21 World Championship titles by the start of the 21st century. The “Maple Leaves” have consistently ranked among the top teams globally, often claiming the top spot in world hockey rankings.
It’s heartening to know that our city has contributed to these victories, producing remarkable talents like Ray Whitney, Colin Smith, and many others. Even more thrilling is the fact that one of these legendary players has a Ukrainian surname. But before we delve into his story, let’s take a brief look at Edmonton’s hockey scene. More on iedmonton.net.
Facts and Figures
Among Edmonton’s many professional and amateur hockey clubs, the most renowned is undoubtedly the Edmonton Oilers, founded in 1972. However, our protagonist never played for this celebrated team. Interestingly, the Oilers’ establishment coincided closely with the birth of the player we’re discussing, as the club came into existence just a year before his birth.
Meet Richard Matvichuk
On February 5, 1973, Richard Dorion Matvichuk was born in Edmonton, Alberta. This future NHL star and one of Canadian hockey’s most prominent figures proudly carried his Ukrainian surname. While it’s unclear how long his family had lived in Canada, it’s known that Richard’s parents were long-time residents of Edmonton. One can only speculate that his ancestors emigrated to Canada at some point, though sources remain silent on this detail.
Matvichuk’s journey to becoming a Stanley Cup champion began at a young age. In 1989, at just 16 years old, he joined the Saskatoon Blades, a junior hockey team in the Western Hockey League. He donned the team’s blue and white colors until he turned 19, after which his professional career took off in the NHL—the dream destination for every aspiring hockey player.
The NHL and the Draft
A pivotal moment in Matvichuk’s career was the NHL Draft, an annual event where top clubs select promising young players. On June 22, 1991, Matvichuk was picked by the Minnesota North Stars from Bloomington, marking the start of his illustrious NHL career.
Career Highlights
Richard’s NHL journey spanned several teams:
- Kalamazoo Wings (1993–1994)
- Dallas Stars (1994–2005)
- New Jersey Devils (2005–2007)
- Lowell Devils (2007–2008)
His 15-year NHL career saw him play an impressive 919 games. Among his many achievements, the pinnacle was winning the Stanley Cup in 1999 while playing for the Dallas Stars.
Transition to Coaching
After retiring from professional hockey, Matvichuk shifted to coaching, starting as the head coach for the Allen Americans in 2012. He later led the Missouri Mavericks in 2014.
Matvichuk also had the honor of representing Canada, donning the national jersey adorned with the iconic maple leaf that strikes fear into opponents worldwide.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Matvichuk played as a defenseman, earning accolades such as the Bill Hunter Trophy early on while playing for the Saskatoon Blades.
Edmonton’s Pride
While it’s a source of pride that Matvichuk hails from Edmonton, there’s a bittersweet feeling knowing his professional career unfolded primarily outside of Canada. Still, one can’t help but wonder how different his path might have been had he stayed in his homeland.
Nevertheless, Richard’s success is a reason for celebration, and as Edmontonians, we take pride in calling him one of our own.