Former Maple Leaf takes up arms to defend Ukraine at 52 years old
Former NHL player and Ukrainian national Dmitri Khristich played more than 800 games in the NHL but the biggest impact he is making in his life is occurring away from the ice. The former Leaf is currently in Ukraine fighting for his country against the Russian invasion. The Kyiv, Ukraine native told TSN's Gord Miller.
Khristich, who played 80 games for the Maple Leafs between 1999-2001, spent 12 seasons in the NHL, also suiting up for the Capitals, Kings and Bruins in his career. Now, at 52 years old, he won't just be remembered as a hockey player but also a Ukrainian hero.
One of the most incredible things about Ukraine standing up to Russia is that many of those who are fighting to protect their freedom are not even soldiers, but civilians.
A right winger in his time, Khristich has undoubtedly lived a life that not many others can say that they have - playing professional hockey at the highest level for over a decade and two decades later, fighting for freedom and defending his country.
Simply an unreal story. It's both unfortunate and inspiring at the same time. Of course, we're all still hoping for a peaceful resolution, but as history has shown us, things tend to get worse before they get better.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Khristich and the brave people of Ukraine.
| POLL | ||
MARS 1 | 231 ANSWERS Former Maple Leaf takes up arms to defend Ukraine at 52 years old Would you ever consider defending your country in a war? | ||
| Yes | 128 | 55.4 % |
| No | 19 | 8.2 % |
| I hope I never have to find out | 84 | 36.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
