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"I would not be up here": Jeremy Roenick swells up during HHoF speech while thanking ex-Sharks GM Doug Wilson
Jeremy Roenick got emotional during his Hockey Hall of Fame induction speech on Monday night. The former NHL star welled up with tears when thanking his former San Jose Sharks general manager Doug Wilson.
Roenick was one of seven new inductees to the Hockey Hall of Fame's class of 2024, joining fellow players Shea Weber, Pavel Datsyuk, Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl. Hockey executives David Poile and Colin Campbell were also inducted in the Builder category.
During his speech, Roenick thanked all the teams he played for during his 20-year NHL career, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings. But he saved special praise for the San Jose Sharks and Doug Wilson.
Roenick explained how in 2007 his career had stalled. He was five goals shy of 500 and received no contract offers on July 1st or August 1st. Depressed and drinking heavily, he got a call from Wilson, his old Blackhawks teammate.
Wilson offered him a contract with the Sharks but with conditions - league minimum pay, no media interviews unless approved and no alcohol.
“I dumped the beer I had in my hand out and immediately shook his hand. And then I scored my 500th goal three months later," Roenick said.
"Thank you Doug Wilson for being a great friend but more important for being a friend when I needed it most. I would not be up here and I don’t mean up here (at this podium) if it wasn’t for you. You truly saved my life.”
Picked 8th overall by Chicago in 1988, Roenick tallied 513 goals and 1,216 points throughout his career. The Massachusetts native was known for his skill and physical style of play.
Jeremy Roenick’s comments about his longtime teammate Chris Chelios
Jeremy Roenick was overcome with emotion as he accepted his Hall of Fame plaque from his longtime teammate and friend Chris Chelios.
"That's my hero, captain America, Chris Chelios,"Jeremy Roenick said as he began his speech." Never saw a guy love the game and be dedicated to the game ever like you 'Chelly.'"
The two were teammates on the Chicago Blackhawks and Team USA for many years, forming a close bond.
Roenick went on to end his speech, saying:
"I love this game. It's been such a huge part of my life for most of my life and this is the best way I can finally find to end this chapter of my life."
Jeremy Roenick received a standing ovation after his speech from the audience.
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