Thunder Bay native and Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp says sharing the Stanley Cup is the least he can do for the city that's supported him so much.
For the second time in four years, Sharp's Blackhawks are NHL champions. With that comes his day with one of the most iconic trophies in all of sports.
On Friday Sharp brought the cup to George Jeffrey Children's Centre before a two-hour public meet and greet at the Fort William Gardens.
"It means a lot," Sharp said before hoisting the cup over his head while thousands cheered him on. "To be able to bring the cup back here means a great deal to me."
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It meant a lot to the Starr's too. The family from Pic River First Nation were decked out from head to toe in Blackhawks gear. They're such big fans they even make it to Chicago at least once a year to check out a game.
The family said they feel a little spoiled seeing their team win so often and being able to meet one of the team's best players.
"It's great to see the cup," Deanna Starr said.
"Patrick Sharp is my favourite player now and it's the second time in four years," Robert Starr said with two-year-old son Grayson in his arms.
Sharp is also 15-year-old Avery Houtri's favourite player. After getting her picture taken with him and the cup, she also got a hug.
"I planned that awhile back," she said smiling. "It was really unbelievable."
The 2013 Stanley Cup finals saw the first original six matchup in more than 30 years. The Hawks beat the Boston Bruins in six games. And although his team lost, it didn't stop Travis Godick from standing in line at 6 a.m to be the first to congratulate Sharp on his victory.
"I'm a huge Boston fan," Godick said with daughter Regan, 8, and son Gavin, 3, in tow.
"That's the first time I've said that today."
He's also a hockey fan and wanted Sharp to know that the whole city is behind him on no matter what team he plays for.
"I'm proud of Patrick," Godick said. "We're all cheering for him."
