Learn about Great Canadians in the game of hockey


No sport can help shape a young Canadian into a community leader like hockey can. The national pastime teaches so many life-skills, from team work to responsibility, leadership and hard work, just to name a few.

Hockey Canada wants to highlight 'Great Canadians' – notable people who used their minor hockey experiences to help do great things in their lives away from the rink. Great Canadians are able to connect their hockey experience, perhaps just at a minor level, to their future success. Success in their field, their community and their life.

Stay tuned to see how hockey shaped them, and it what it takes to be successful.

GREAT CANADIANS: PAUL BRANDT
A 2017 inductee into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, the Alberta native has used music to promote a love for Canada’s game while giving back to the community.
Great Canadians: Sheldon Kennedy
He is a World Juniors gold medallist and Memorial Cup champion, but the former NHLer has left a much larger mark off the ice.
Great Canadians: Michael J. Fox
The actor – honoured alongside Goyette, Juneau and the Gov. General – credits minor hockey for his positive attitude.
Great Canadians: Danielle Goyette
The two-time Olympic gold medallist and eight-time world champion can look back on a single moment that shaped her life.
Great Canadians: Joé Juneau
An Olympic silver medallist and 13-year NHL veteran, his biggest contribution to hockey has come at the grassroots level.
Great Canadians: Murray Costello
The long-time president of Hockey Canada has dedicated his life to a sport that he says gave him every opportunity. 
Great Canadians: Right Hon. David Johnston
The Governor General talks about his love for the game, and how his Harvard coach helped inspire him on and off the ice.
Great Canadians: Cassie Campbell-Pascall
The two-time Olympic gold medallist shares the life lessons hockey taught her, and why it is important for kids to play.
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