Overcoming Adversity: The Inspiring Journey of NHL Legend Dennis Maruk.
Playing sports professionally demands a combination of skill, ability, persistence, and motivation, with size sometimes being a crucial factor. For NHL legend Dennis Maruk, his size and height were perceived as obstacles by others when it came to being drafted and signed into the NHL. He needed to persistently prove himself as an outstanding athlete to play in the “big man’s game.”
Maruk began playing hockey at the age of eight in Toronto, Ontario, quickly developing a passion for the sport. As a teenager, he played competitively in the Ontario Hockey Association Junior Division. At 15, he was traded to the London Knights hockey team in London, Ontario, which was a difficult move for him since he had planned to play junior hockey in his hometown. Despite initial resistance, his sister Karen convinced him to seize the opportunity. Moving away from family and friends at a young age was challenging, but Maruk persevered, achieving significant success with the London Knights from 1972 to 1975. He won the Rookie of the Year award, the Red Tilson award for most outstanding player in the OHL, and scored an impressive 159 goals.
In 1975, Maruk was drafted by the NHL’s California Golden Seals, but being drafted did not guarantee a spot in the NHL. “There’s no guarantee,” Maruk said. “Even when drafted, you didn’t know.” When Maruk and his agent, Boom Boom Geoffrion, spoke with the Golden Seals’ general manager, Maruk was told he would start in the minors. Despite his agent’s urging, the general manager was firm. Encouraged by Boom Boom, Maruk continued to play his best hockey, soon impressing the Seals’ manager during an exhibition game by scoring his first NHL goal against star player Marcel Dionne.
Following the game, Maruk received a call from Boom Boom with the news that he was being offered an NHL contract, marking the beginning of his remarkable 15-year NHL career. Maruk played for various teams, but his major highlights were with the Washington Capitals from 1978-83. He scored 50 goals in the 1980-81 season and surpassed this record with 60 goals in the 1981-82 season. His record with the Capitals was only recently broken by Alex Ovechkin in the 2007-08 season. Maruk still holds the Capitals’ record for most points in a season with 136 in 1981-82, finishing fourth in the league for total points behind Wayne Gretzky, Mike Bossy, and Peter Stastny.
Maruk’s exceptional skills earned him spots in two NHL All-Star Games: the first in 1978 with the Cleveland Barons, and again in 1982 as a Washington Capital. Additionally, he played internationally for Team Canada, winning bronze medals in the 1978 and 1982 World Championships.
Maruk’s career ended in 1989 with the Minnesota North Stars after suffering a severe knee injury. Although he healed significantly, he felt it was time to move on. Post-retirement, Maruk faced many struggles, as opportunities promised to retired players rarely materialized. He worked in various positions, including teaching hockey in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and became involved in charity games and the NHL Alumni.
Returning to Toronto in 2008 after 35 years, Maruk was warmly welcomed back into the hockey community. He now participates in 50-60 charity games per year and runs a summer hockey school in Huntsville, Ontario. “It’s lots of fun to give back,” he says.
In 2017, Maruk released an autobiography co-written with Sportsnet’s Ken Reid, titled “Dennis Maruk: The Unforgettable Story of Hockey’s Forgotten 60-Goal Man.” The book, which covers both the highs and lows of his career and life, includes personal struggles with anxiety, depression, and addiction. The 60-chapter book, celebrating his 60 goals, has been well-received and is a favorite among fans at charity events.
Maruk’s journey is a testament to overcoming adversity and achieving greatness against the odds, leaving an indelible mark on the world of hockey.