[Dion]

Brodie excited to be going to the World Championships

T.J. Brodie grew up cheering for the Detroit Red Wings as a little boy just over the border from the Motor City in Chatham, Ont.

So imagine his delight Saturday when Steve Yzerman, of all people, called with an invitation to represent Canada at the 2013 IIHF World Hockey Championships in Stockholm-Helsinki.

“It’s sort of weird watching him growing up and being so close to Detroit and stuff,” the 21-year-old defenceman said Sunday morning after packing up his belongings on the last day of work this season for the Calgary Flames. “To talk to him on the phone is sort of a weird feeling, I guess.

“Watching your idol and getting to talk to him – it’s a cool experience.”

“It’s exciting to get the opportunity – to get asked to go over,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to it. It’s going to be a fun time, and a good experience.”

http://blogs.calgaryherald.com/2013/...championships/