I was at Jarome's first game in 1996. I was 15. I'm now 38. Throughout my teenage years, into early adulthood, and now approaching middle age -- I have followed his career every step of the way. Through all the ups and downs of my life I've been able to tune into the Flames and see #12 leading the way. It was a constant. Even after he was traded I'd keep an eye on how things were going for him.
It just so happens I was watching the documentary about the Tragically Hip's last tour last night, and in it there's a moment when Gord Downie talks about getting a call from Bobby Orr, and its clear how much Bobby Orr meant to him. It dawned on me that Jarome Iginla is my Bobby Orr.
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A few weeks after crashing head-first into the boards (denting his helmet and being unable to move for a little while) following a hit from behind by Bob Errey, the Calgary Flames player explains:
"I was like Christ, lying on my back, with my arms outstretched, crucified"
-- Frank Musil - Early January 1994
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