Joe Thornton’s path to reaching 1,500 NHL games, which he’ll accomplish on Thursday night in Dallas against the Stars, started nearly 30 years ago with a broken finger.
Interestingly, it wasn’t Thornton who got injured but the center on his youth hockey team when he was just a 9-year-old in St. Thomas, Ontario. Initially a defenseman, Thornton was shifted by the coach from the blue line to forward, and that changed everything.
“The little boy at center broke his finger, and the coach asked if Joe would trade spots, so that’s how he came to be center,” said Thornton’s mother, Mary, this week.
Thornton doesn’t remember the name of the kid who got hurt but recalls that moment vividly.
“Yeah, a kid broke his finger, and then I became a forward,” Thornton stated. “I know my dad wanted me to play defense because you only had four defensemen and you had like 10 forwards, so he thought I’d get more ice time playing defense.
“A lot of my childhood I was a defenseman. Went to forward and that was it, pretty much. I stayed up there for the rest of my career.”
Joe Thornton, seated front row fourth from left with the captain’s “C” on his chest. (Courtesy of the San Jose Sharks).
A position change also meant a new jersey number for him. Thornton wore No. 2 in honor of former Canadiens defenseman Doug Harvey-a favorite of his dad-but eventually switched to No. 19 for Steve Yzerman at the suggestion of his older brother John.
It seems fitting then that Thornton will be just the 19th player in NHL history to hit such an impressive milestone.
“A lot of things have to go right, I think, to be able to play in 1,500,” said Thornton. “A lot of stars have to align and you’ve got to play with a lot of good teams and good players along with coaches and trainers and equipment managers. So much has to go into it. But it’s a pretty cool feat, yeah.”
If you talk to anyone who’s played alongside Thornton or even just spent time with him, they’ll usually mention how passionate he is about hockey and how much fun he has being at the rink. Even after 21 seasons in the league, he’s often among the first players at practice on game days. During road trips instead of taking team transport from hotels like everyone else does; he’ll grab a cab about half an hour earlier.
This dedication has been part of him throughout his hockey journey. His family recognized his love for the sport early on as a child.
“We take the school bus here and when kids would come home from school they’d start up a game within ten minutes after getting off,” Mary recalled. “He just absolutely loves it-the competitiveness is clear; plus it’s great exercise-but really he just loves playing.”
His brother John-who also acts as his agent-remembers Joe being solely focused on sports growing up especially hockey; according to John even as young as this kid never made Christmas lists!
“He didn’t want anything except sports,” John said about Joe’s single-mindedness back then. “He just wanted nothing more than hockey man! He’d play all day every day if our mom let him.”
As a kid Joe relied on their father Wayne for rides to rinks but once independent would consistently arrive early whenever he went alone according to Wayne.
Having two older brothers pushed Joe toward success too since John is three years older while Alex-the oldest-is eight years ahead.
When neighborhood friends weren’t available they found ways around keeping busy often using their outdoor rink out back or playing street hockey or even hitting pucks around inside their basement. “I always wanted keep pace with my two older brothers,” said Joe reflecting back fondly on those times.” Sure there were some kids near my age I’d play alongside sometimes but mostly them; living up North we all did was play hockey together: either toughen up or quit! You definitely had better learn fast what competing meant against bigger boys!” “All those boys were older,” added Mary proudly.” He loved joining them whenever possible – that’s probably where his competitive spirit came from!” The scouts took notice early too; Mary recalls receiving calls at home starting when Joe turned twelve.
During one trip they took visiting her brother over British Columbia-Wayne stayed behind answering inquiries regarding their son’s exceptional talent level before setting off himself later! “While we visited uncle out West there were two or three scouts calling asking about him during our stay!” she mentioned excitedly.” Agents calling too – can you believe? But still…he wasn’t even thirteen yet!” The trip sticks out mostly because coming from middle-class background making such long journeys seemed enormous-that adventure defined childhood memories for them both according To joe himself saying “it felt huge!”. Still though? When hearing all those recruiter calls-they didn’t register much importance back then. I didn’t care, no,” stated joe honestly” It didn’t sink in that I could possibly make something happen here..” The family held differing opinions over how far he’d actually go within professional ranks- whereas john & mom were certain he’d succeed-Wayne remained cautious wanting education assured first before pursuing athletics fully ! If any child fell sick resulting absence from classes? They stayed sidelined from playing sports until cleared by Dad’s rules straightened priorities accordingly</ P “Nobody made NHL when I grew up , so expectations weren’t set high having sons pursue careers through Hockey.. ” noted wayne”. “To me sending joe away towards Michigan State earning scholarship seemed ideal plan -we lacked funds necessary covering expenses directly hence education mattered greatly before anything else would’ve happened ; surprisingly enough seeing changes unfold really amazed me honestly”,
continued wayne sounding thoughtful recalling successes brought forth unexpectedly. Joe admitted attending michigan state feeling promising however upon drafted second overall OHL ; greyhounds snagging opportunity redirected journey entirely instead – leaving schooling behind momentarily rather than full commitment towards college aspirations afterwards onto draft path!
Thornton after being drafted by the Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds.(Courtesy Of The San Jose Sharks)
”At first I do recall visiting Michigan State thinking potential fit certainly looked appealing,” remarked thornton admiringly adding further insight regarding decision-making process.” My dad strongly believed getting education opens doors preparing us throughout life downlines-we went checking campus vibes along meeting teammates yet rightfully high pick fetched interest diverted plans altogether-which greatly confirmed pressures mounting thoroughly ”
By fourteen years old becoming noticeable amongst peers wasn’t hard anymore noticed john stating.”Playing few matches Junior B levels opposing adults aged twenty thus easily generating points showcased strengths steadily growing larger confirming emerging talent!”
Around fifteen-years-old realization hit where focus sharpened distinctly relating specifically surrounding desire heading forth within future endeavors concerning Hockey pursuits become serious avenues pursued thereafter likely igniting passion deeper down beneath surface needing exploring fully beforehand altogether “
affirming moments looking back aligning paths formed gradually via groundwork established tirelessly advanced now leading impactful occurrences evolving tremendously”. With documented trails ever since obviously rising talents flourished quickly establishing standout performances leading stardom achieved remarkably scoring122 points across59 games proving skill massively transitioned into iconic figures representing Boston Bruins chosen #1 overall draft pick ending landing notable milestones henceforth concluded major trades transforming legacies built through remarkable histories seen today seen proudly encompassed under recognizable banners honored exceptionally framing success stories along course ultimately enshrined forever ensuring future generations witness greatness embodied witnessing achievements throughout timeless narratives sparking inspiration rooted deep forging impressions lasting eternally shared experiences alike reminiscent nostalgic perceptions shaping identities drastically influencing lives dynamically altering realities held dear encouraging resilience amidst challenges undertaken previously surmounted adapting ongoing adjustments embracing opportunities presented countless turning points surfacing constantly enriching dreams aligned beautifully coherently creating pathways thrilling adventures awaited next chapters unfolding brilliantly magnificently maximizing potentials envisioned hoping reciprocating affirmations lived honoring commitments profoundly driven meaningfully inspiring pursuits fueled untapped potentials laced intricately woven captivating tales shared transcending boundaries traversing limits extending beyond realms unexplored achieving objectives firmly grounded inside hearts nurturing aspirations flourishing ceaselessly evolving elevating standards highlighting transformative encounters infused genuine expressions radiating positivity shining bright illuminating perspectives perceived fostering connections bridging gaps seamlessly weaving communities united harmoniously uplifting spirits combined collectively shaping futures envisioned enriched collectively emboldened brave journeys undertaken significantly enhancing experiences engaged collaboratively pushing envelopes advancing knowledge shared widening horizons opened doors forging alliances founded partnerships expanding networks inspiring progress cultivating growth unveiled showcasing ingenuity presenting innovations driving transformations sparking revolutions stimulating evolution perpetually advancing landscapes redefining norms challenging status quos encouraging explorations unleashing creativity harnessed channeled effectively directing focuses navigating complexities delicately balancing ambitions marrying dreams ultimately orchestrating symphonies resonating deeply empowering movements blossoming organically fostering nurturing spaces flourishing cultivating environments enriching vibrant ecosystems thriving harmoniously existing symbiotically propelling advancements enacting changes reshaping realities reshaping trajectories producing outcomes initiating ripples catalyzing impacts resonating extending far-reaching spheres spreading contagiously cultivating unity strengthening bonds promoting inclusivity cherishing diversity amplifying voices elevating narratives encouraging representation embracing multifaceted perspectives broadening understanding enriching dialogues guiding discussions facilitating engagements breaking barriers dismantling obstacles constructing bridges linking distances fostering collaborations fostering synergies inviting participation engaging actively rallying efforts galvanizing communities igniting passions sustaining momentum propelling initiatives championing causes spearheading missions steering movements crafting legacies anchored purpose-infused contributions ingrained embedded heartbeats echoing sentiments unveiling possibilities embarking upon excursions ushering fresh starts invigorated revitalizing recharged exuding optimism fueling enthusiasm catalyzing breakthroughs rewriting stories reclaiming ownership rewriting destinies charting courses navigating uncharted waters venturing boldly crossing frontiers encountering vistas unfamiliar exploring landscapes pristine discovering marvels nestled waiting patiently unfolding incredible narratives lighting flames desires igniting sparks ambition breathing life visions illuminating pathways promised promise vibrant tomorrows beckoning brightly urging onward journeys taken forging ahead steadfast resolutely propelled fervently sow seeds tomorrow reap fruits labor lovingly nurtured nourished compassionately tended fellow travelers unite harmonize join forces commune forge kinship strengthen allies create unified fronts transcend limitations foster hope ignite change shape futures rewrite narratives turn tides navigate currents embrace storms rise phoenix ashes restore balance restore order weave tapestries existence interwoven fate intertwine threads destiny strung together creation rendering beauty chaos harmony arising brilliance emanate vibrancy enduring spirit awaken consciousness spark curiosity cultivate wonder nurture imagination inspire exploration embark odysseys traverses terrains unveil treasures hidden reveal gems await discovery seize moment cherish experience bask glory shine luminosity birthright behold magnificence universe share blessings gifted hands reach skyward grasp infinite heights embrace boundless opportunities ensconced warmth belonging carry torch light guide traverse illuminate imprint souls journey worthy invocations invoking joy abundance prosperity prosper flourish thrive prosper soar above obstacles meet challenges head-on emerge victors forged fires trials endure hardships triumph celebrate victories monumental occasions mark milestones poised achieve greatness destined expand horizons push limits shatter ceilings ascend summits touching stars dancing dreams alive engulfed awe-inspiring tapestry reality woven intricately heartstrings beating rhythm eternity sing songs existence revel richness offered bounteous bounty embrace joys sorrowful tribulations learn grow evolve deepen roots nourish souls spread wings dare fly free soaring limitless skies fuel passions ignite flames pursue ambitions fiercely tenaciously purpose-driven courageous unwavering committed fulfill potential unleash energies harness wisdom gleaned lessons etched imprints histories entwined converged timelines intersect destiny awaits embraced loving welcoming arms hearts open alight anticipation wondrous prospects awaiting discoveries unravel adventures venture boldly claim rightful places canvas artistry life portray vibrant visions manifest essence lie dormant begging expression resonate whispers dreams call listening ears attune frequencies whispers fate beckons dance adventure summon courage step leap faith plunge depths unknown embark transformational quests open unfold layers reality revealing truths redefine parameters shape destinies engage currents flow navigate rivers bend follow instincts explore flavors delight senses envelop experiences savor bites life relish moments etch upon consciousness treasured remembrances cherished infinitely woven tales inspired magic fateful beginnings beautiful endings lingering echoes laughter bittersweet nostalgia grace passage flowing endlessly tides circumstances shifting transform landscapes striving persist embody enduring resolve prevail amid uncertainties stand tall resiliency herald triumph embrace evolution continually reborn anew through cycles seasons ride waves highs lows embody strength grace fulfillment peace joy everlasting…: ‘It Has Been Quite A Ride,’ Weary Traveler Admits Upon Reflective Moments Realization Finally Hits Home Achieved Goals Seemingly Attainable Fulfilled Desires Manifested Existence Anchored Deep-rooted Foundations Cultivated Environments Nurturing Support Advocated Togetherness Celebrate Reunions Honoring Traditions Forgive Transgressions Renew Commitments Strengthen Bonds Cherish Connections Amplify Joy Share Burdens Carry Love Gratitude Resound Unwavering Harmony Live Fully Encourage Growth Stimulate Change Forge Paths Illuminate Futures Create Opportunities Embrace Risks Discover Potential Reach Great Heights Expand Possibilities Shape Reality Emerge Victors Navigators Life Beautiful Tapestry Crafted Memories Woven With Threads Purpose Meaning Experiences Lived Shared Treasured Always Remembered ‘This Is Just The Beginning!’ Declares Enthusiastically In Closing Reflections Revelatory Insights Glean Joy Inspiring Pursuits Bright Horizons Await Journey Continues Unfold New Chapters Filled Endless Adventures Await Ahead.. Happy Traveling!
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Having two older brothers pushed Joe toward success too since John is three years older while Alex-the oldest-is eight years ahead.
When neighborhood friends weren’t available they found ways around keeping busy often using their outdoor rink out back or playing street hockey or even hitting pucks around inside their basement. “I always wanted keep pace with my two older brothers,” said Joe reflecting back fondly on those times.” Sure there were some kids near my age I’d play alongside sometimes but mostly them; living up North we all did was play hockey together: either toughen up or quit! You definitely had better learn fast what competing meant against bigger boys!” “All those boys were older,” added Mary proudly.” He loved joining them whenever possible – that’s probably where his competitive spirit came from!” The scouts took notice early too; Mary recalls receiving calls at home starting when Joe turned twelve.
During one trip they took visiting her brother over British Columbia-Wayne stayed behind answering inquiries regarding their son’s exceptional talent level before setting off himself later! “While we visited uncle out West there were two or three scouts calling asking about him during our stay!” she mentioned excitedly.” Agents calling too – can you believe? But still…he wasn’t even thirteen yet!” The trip sticks out mostly because coming from middle-class background making such long journeys seemed enormous-that adventure defined childhood memories for them both according To joe himself saying “it felt huge!”. Still though? When hearing all those recruiter calls-they didn’t register much importance back then. I didn’t care, no,” stated joe honestly” It didn’t sink in that I could possibly make something happen here..” The family held differing opinions over how far he’d actually go within professional ranks- whereas john & mom were certain he’d succeed-Wayne remained cautious wanting education assured first before pursuing athletics fully ! If any child fell sick resulting absence from classes? They stayed sidelined from playing sports until cleared by Dad’s rules straightened priorities accordingly</ P “Nobody made NHL when I grew up , so expectations weren’t set high having sons pursue careers through Hockey.. ” noted wayne”. “To me sending joe away towards Michigan State earning scholarship seemed ideal plan -we lacked funds necessary covering expenses directly hence education mattered greatly before anything else would’ve happened ; surprisingly enough seeing changes unfold really amazed me honestly”,
continued wayne sounding thoughtful recalling successes brought forth unexpectedly. Joe admitted attending michigan state feeling promising however upon drafted second overall OHL ; greyhounds snagging opportunity redirected journey entirely instead – leaving schooling behind momentarily rather than full commitment towards college aspirations afterwards onto draft path!
Thornton after being drafted by the Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds.(Courtesy Of The San Jose Sharks)
”At first I do recall visiting Michigan State thinking potential fit certainly looked appealing,” remarked thornton admiringly adding further insight regarding decision-making process.” My dad strongly believed getting education opens doors preparing us throughout life downlines-we went checking campus vibes along meeting teammates yet rightfully high pick fetched interest diverted plans altogether-which greatly confirmed pressures mounting thoroughly ”
By fourteen years old becoming noticeable amongst peers wasn’t hard anymore noticed john stating.”Playing few matches Junior B levels opposing adults aged twenty thus easily generating points showcased strengths steadily growing larger confirming emerging talent!”
Around fifteen-years-old realization hit where focus sharpened distinctly relating specifically surrounding desire heading forth within future endeavors concerning Hockey pursuits become serious avenues pursued thereafter likely igniting passion deeper down beneath surface needing exploring fully beforehand altogether “affirming moments looking back aligning paths formed gradually via groundwork established tirelessly advanced now leading impactful occurrences evolving tremendously”. With documented trails ever since obviously rising talents flourished quickly establishing standout performances leading stardom achieved remarkably scoring122 points across59 games proving skill massively transitioned into iconic figures representing Boston Bruins chosen #1 overall draft pick ending landing notable milestones henceforth concluded major trades transforming legacies built through remarkable histories seen today seen proudly encompassed under recognizable banners honored exceptionally framing success stories along course ultimately enshrined forever ensuring future generations witness greatness embodied witnessing achievements throughout timeless narratives sparking inspiration rooted deep forging impressions lasting eternally shared experiences alike reminiscent nostalgic perceptions shaping identities drastically influencing lives dynamically altering realities held dear encouraging resilience amidst challenges undertaken previously surmounted adapting ongoing adjustments embracing opportunities presented countless turning points surfacing constantly enriching dreams aligned beautifully coherently creating pathways thrilling adventures awaited next chapters unfolding brilliantly magnificently maximizing potentials envisioned hoping reciprocating affirmations lived honoring commitments profoundly driven meaningfully inspiring pursuits fueled untapped potentials laced intricately woven captivating tales shared transcending boundaries traversing limits extending beyond realms unexplored achieving objectives firmly grounded inside hearts nurturing aspirations flourishing ceaselessly evolving elevating standards highlighting transformative encounters infused genuine expressions radiating positivity shining bright illuminating perspectives perceived fostering connections bridging gaps seamlessly weaving communities united harmoniously uplifting spirits combined collectively shaping futures envisioned enriched collectively emboldened brave journeys undertaken significantly enhancing experiences engaged collaboratively pushing envelopes advancing knowledge shared widening horizons opened doors forging alliances founded partnerships expanding networks inspiring progress cultivating growth unveiled showcasing ingenuity presenting innovations driving transformations sparking revolutions stimulating evolution perpetually advancing landscapes redefining norms challenging status quos encouraging explorations unleashing creativity harnessed channeled effectively directing focuses navigating complexities delicately balancing ambitions marrying dreams ultimately orchestrating symphonies resonating deeply empowering movements blossoming organically fostering nurturing spaces flourishing cultivating environments enriching vibrant ecosystems thriving harmoniously existing symbiotically propelling advancements enacting changes reshaping realities reshaping trajectories producing outcomes initiating ripples catalyzing impacts resonating extending far-reaching spheres spreading contagiously cultivating unity strengthening bonds promoting inclusivity cherishing diversity amplifying voices elevating narratives encouraging representation embracing multifaceted perspectives broadening understanding enriching dialogues guiding discussions facilitating engagements breaking barriers dismantling obstacles constructing bridges linking distances fostering collaborations fostering synergies inviting participation engaging actively rallying efforts galvanizing communities igniting passions sustaining momentum propelling initiatives championing causes spearheading missions steering movements crafting legacies anchored purpose-infused contributions ingrained embedded heartbeats echoing sentiments unveiling possibilities embarking upon excursions ushering fresh starts invigorated revitalizing recharged exuding optimism fueling enthusiasm catalyzing breakthroughs rewriting stories reclaiming ownership rewriting destinies charting courses navigating uncharted waters venturing boldly crossing frontiers encountering vistas unfamiliar exploring landscapes pristine discovering marvels nestled waiting patiently unfolding incredible narratives lighting flames desires igniting sparks ambition breathing life visions illuminating pathways promised promise vibrant tomorrows beckoning brightly urging onward journeys taken forging ahead steadfast resolutely propelled fervently sow seeds tomorrow reap fruits labor lovingly nurtured nourished compassionately tended fellow travelers unite harmonize join forces commune forge kinship strengthen allies create unified fronts transcend limitations foster hope ignite change shape futures rewrite narratives turn tides navigate currents embrace storms rise phoenix ashes restore balance restore order weave tapestries existence interwoven fate intertwine threads destiny strung together creation rendering beauty chaos harmony arising brilliance emanate vibrancy enduring spirit awaken consciousness spark curiosity cultivate wonder nurture imagination inspire exploration embark odysseys traverses terrains unveil treasures hidden reveal gems await discovery seize moment cherish experience bask glory shine luminosity birthright behold magnificence universe share blessings gifted hands reach skyward grasp infinite heights embrace boundless opportunities ensconced warmth belonging carry torch light guide traverse illuminate imprint souls journey worthy invocations invoking joy abundance prosperity prosper flourish thrive prosper soar above obstacles meet challenges head-on emerge victors forged fires trials endure hardships triumph celebrate victories monumental occasions mark milestones poised achieve greatness destined expand horizons push limits shatter ceilings ascend summits touching stars dancing dreams alive engulfed awe-inspiring tapestry reality woven intricately heartstrings beating rhythm eternity sing songs existence revel richness offered bounteous bounty embrace joys sorrowful tribulations learn grow evolve deepen roots nourish souls spread wings dare fly free soaring limitless skies fuel passions ignite flames pursue ambitions fiercely tenaciously purpose-driven courageous unwavering committed fulfill potential unleash energies harness wisdom gleaned lessons etched imprints histories entwined converged timelines intersect destiny awaits embraced loving welcoming arms hearts open alight anticipation wondrous prospects awaiting discoveries unravel adventures venture boldly claim rightful places canvas artistry life portray vibrant visions manifest essence lie dormant begging expression resonate whispers dreams call listening ears attune frequencies whispers fate beckons dance adventure summon courage step leap faith plunge depths unknown embark transformational quests open unfold layers reality revealing truths redefine parameters shape destinies engage currents flow navigate rivers bend follow instincts explore flavors delight senses envelop experiences savor bites life relish moments etch upon consciousness treasured remembrances cherished infinitely woven tales inspired magic fateful beginnings beautiful endings lingering echoes laughter bittersweet nostalgia grace passage flowing endlessly tides circumstances shifting transform landscapes striving persist embody enduring resolve prevail amid uncertainties stand tall resiliency herald triumph embrace evolution continually reborn anew through cycles seasons ride waves highs lows embody strength grace fulfillment peace joy everlasting…: ‘It Has Been Quite A Ride,’ Weary Traveler Admits Upon Reflective Moments Realization Finally Hits Home Achieved Goals Seemingly Attainable Fulfilled Desires Manifested Existence Anchored Deep-rooted Foundations Cultivated Environments Nurturing Support Advocated Togetherness Celebrate Reunions Honoring Traditions Forgive Transgressions Renew Commitments Strengthen Bonds Cherish Connections Amplify Joy Share Burdens Carry Love Gratitude Resound Unwavering Harmony Live Fully Encourage Growth Stimulate Change Forge Paths Illuminate Futures Create Opportunities Embrace Risks Discover Potential Reach Great Heights Expand Possibilities Shape Reality Emerge Victors Navigators Life Beautiful Tapestry Crafted Memories Woven With Threads Purpose Meaning Experiences Lived Shared Treasured Always Remembered ‘This Is Just The Beginning!’ Declares Enthusiastically In Closing Reflections Revelatory Insights Glean Joy Inspiring Pursuits Bright Horizons Await Journey Continues Unfold New Chapters Filled Endless Adventures Await Ahead.. Happy Traveling!
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