Craig MacTavish, known affectionately as “Mac” by his friends, is a man who truly knows how to enjoy life. Over the course of a 35-year friendship, I’ve witnessed firsthand how he maximizes every moment. His positive energy and zest for life are infectious, making every encounter with him a memorable one.
This past weekend, Mac’s approach to life was on full display. On Saturday, he was inducted into the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame in Red Deer, a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Remarkably, this honor came just hours after he wrapped up the final game of a three-day hockey tournament he organized for nine-year-olds. The tournament featured teams named after the five National Hockey League (NHL) clubs he played for: the Bruins, Oilers, Rangers, Flyers, and Blues.
Mac and I first became friends shortly after he joined the Edmonton Oilers. Our friendship deepened one fall evening in 1993 on the 18th green of the Edmonton Country Club. Golf pro Bill Penny was hosting a pro-am tournament and, in a playful twist, decided to place me, in my wheelchair, right in the middle of a sand trap.
This moment was quintessential MacTavish: blending humor, spontaneity, and inclusivity. His playful spirit and ability to create joy in any situation have defined our friendship and his approach to life. Mac’s induction into the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame is a testament to his remarkable career and his enduring impact on the hockey community.
Throughout his career, MacTavish played for five NHL teams, each experience enriching his life and career. His tenure with the Edmonton Oilers is particularly noteworthy, as it was during this time that our friendship blossomed. Mac’s ability to balance a demanding professional career with personal relationships is one of his many admirable qualities.
The hockey tournament he organized this past weekend is a perfect example of how Mac continues to give back to the community. By involving young players and creating a fun, competitive environment, he is fostering the next generation of hockey talent. The tournament also reflects his playful spirit, with teams named after his former NHL clubs, adding a personal touch to the event.
Mac’s induction into the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame is not just a recognition of his professional achievements but also a celebration of his character. His positive outlook, dedication to the sport, and ability to bring people together are qualities that have defined his life and career. This weekend’s events were a fitting tribute to a man who has given so much to the sport and to those around him.
Our 35-year friendship has been filled with countless memories, each one a testament to Mac’s ability to live life to the fullest. From that memorable evening in the sand trap to his recent induction into the Hall of Fame, Mac has shown time and again that he knows how to embrace life and have fun. His journey is a master class in squeezing every last ounce out of a minute, and then some.
In conclusion, Craig MacTavish is more than just a hockey legend; he is a man who knows how to enjoy life and share that joy with others. His recent induction into the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor, celebrating not just his professional accomplishments but also his remarkable spirit. As he continues to inspire those around him, Mac’s legacy of fun, friendship, and excellence will undoubtedly endure for years to come.
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