National Hockey League stars Patrick Kane (Chicago Blackhawks) and James van Riemsdyk (Toronto Maple Leafs) discuss being part of USA Hockey’s It Starts with a Stick campaign, as well as their own first sticks.
USA Hockey: Do you remember your first hockey stick or any special moments with it?
Patrick Kane: I was 6 years old. My dad bought me a black Louisville TPS Mark Messier-pattern wood stick.
James van Riemsdyk: I think I was right around 2 or 3 years old. It was a wooden, straight-bladed Victoriaville. It was a light, sand-colored stick. I was pretty fired up about getting that. I definitely remember being very excited and taking it right to the garage and shooting some hockey balls and stuff like that.
USA Hockey: How great is it to help provide that same feeling for another kid and to grow that passion for hockey though It Starts with a Stick?
PK: It’s special to be part of a unique program that helps grow the game in a way that will have a direct impact on a child.
JVR: It’s great. I think, for me, it started with getting that stick in my hands and the rest is history. If we [as NHL players] can help do that and help grow the game, I think that’s a great thing.
USA Hockey: In 20 words or less describe what USA Hockey means to you.
PK: USA Hockey has a special place in my heart and I’m excited to be part of its growing future.
JVR: When I left home to play for USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program and started with that, I think that helped me get to the next level and go where I needed to go with my career. I’ll always be grateful for that.
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