Washington Capitals forward Nathan Walker is set to become the first Australian player to dress in an NHL game when he makes his debut Saturday night against the Montreal Canadiens.
Walker grew up in Sydney after he and his family emigrated from the United Kingdom when he was 2. After his brother Ryan was exposed to the sport, it became clear Nathan had pro potential and he moved to the Czech Republic at age 13 to play minor and then junior hockey.
The Capitals made Walker the first Australian selected in the NHL draft when they took him in the third round in 2014. After a few seasons in the minors, the 23-year-old developed into a strong penalty killer and earned a spot on Washington’s season-opening roster.
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I’m always amazed these sportscasters and announcers can call the game with McDavid’s **** in their mouths all the time.
Allegedly there is a petition going around to have the Australian national anthem played before the game to recognize the significance. Could be a cool thing for 1 game.
Allegedly there is a petition going around to have the Australian national anthem played before the game to recognize the significance. Could be a cool thing for 1 game.
Would be bizarrely hilarious to hear the bombastic strains of "Advance, Australia Fair" waft through the arena in Washington, but pretty damn cool at the same time.
Allegedly there is a petition going around to have the Australian national anthem played before the game to recognize the significance. Could be a cool thing for 1 game.
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Turn up the good, turn down the suck!
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As an Australian, I don't even care for all the terrible stereotypes posted in this thread. I am so unbelievably happy we have an Australian playing in the NHL!
I would be so happy if they played Waltzing Matilda on the organ.
Awesome, I used to live with Slim Dusty's granddaughter in Sydney.
This is great news, my wife is Australian and I've long wondered if we end up settling back there with kids whether I could raise an NHLer. Now I know the answer is yes, if I send him packing to Czechia at age 13.