A Steinbach resident was among those in attendance as Jonathan Toews returned to Chicago, playing his first game there since joining the Winnipeg Jets.
Kurt Enns travelled to Chicago with his son and a few friends to support Toews, who is also his cousin earlier this week.
“We met up with Jonathan’s parents and some of his friends, and some of his former teammates.”
As the Blackhawks welcomed Toews back to the city where he spent the majority of his NHL career, Enns says the night was filled with emotion for both fans and players.
“It was quite the night. [There was] almost a five-minute ovation for him too from the fans. It was it was amazing to be at for sure.”
During the pre-game ceremony, a video tribute was played on the big screen highlighting Toews’ career with the team.
“The three Stanley Cups he won, some of the highlights, goals he’s had over the years and different things. It was pretty awesome to see, and the fans didn’t want to stop cheering.”
Enns believes the atmosphere made for an emotional night for Toews, adding that it showed in his play on the ice.
“He had some good chances the other night. And I think he probably steps up his game a little bit for sure. He obviously wanted to make some points and get a win, but that didn’t happen. But it’s still a very fun game to be at.”
Having attended several Blackhawks and Jets games over the years, Enns says this one stood out from the rest.
“It was a big thing in Chicago. So, every fan got a picture with his number on it saying, ‘Welcome back 19’ for that night. And there was a lot of media stuff going on leading up to the game. It was really cool to be at for sure. We looked forward to going there for a while and we’re really excited to be able to be a part of that night.”
The experience extended beyond game night. Prior to the matchup, Enns and his son attended the Jets’ morning skate and had the chance to meet players. During the game, they found themselves seated next to several familiar faces from Toews’ past.
“We actually sat beside a few of his former teammates as well that played for the Blackhawks. So, there’s a bunch of them there too. Like Brian Bickel, Andrew Shaw, Brian Campbell, and one of his old coaches, Denis Savard, also a former player of the Blackhawks, he was also there. We got to rub shoulders with all of them.”
Another notable guest in attendance was racecar driver Danica Patrick.
“That was pretty wild, for sure,” Enns says. “He’s in the same friend group as Danica Patrick. They both have houses in Scottsdale. So, they have a lot of the same friends. So that was really cool to meet her.”
While the game was memorable for Enns, he says it was especially meaningful for his son.
“It was a trip of a lifetime for him for sure. He was probably looking forward to that trip more than I was. So, it was really cool for him to have the opportunity to have a weekend like that. He was beside himself all weekend. It was really awesome.”
