When Connor Bedard revealed his biggest inspiration - "I hope I'm making him proud"

Connor Bedard revealed his biggest inspiration
Connor Bedard revealed his biggest inspiration

Connor Bedard, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft, has had an incredible season with Regina in the Western Hockey League. He's leading the league with 123 points in 47 games. But his success on the ice is driven by something deeper than just his passion for the game.

For Bedard, his biggest inspiration is his late grandfather, Garth Bedard, who passed away in a car accident on April 6, 2021, at the age of 73. Despite the tragedy, Bedard found the strength to honor his grandfather's memory just three days later. He scored two goals in a 2-1 overtime win against Brandon, dedicating his performance to Garth.

Bedard told NHL.com:

"I think he's definitely someone I play for now. During the Canadian (national) anthem before each game, he's someone I'm thinking about. Hopefully he's still watching. ... He loved to watch hockey. I hope I'm making him proud."

Garth Bedard had a significant impact on his grandson's life. Bedard remembers his grandfather as a man with a positive outlook on the world and an infectious personality. Bedard recalled,

"He'd always make friends with everyone. It was pretty crazy to be at the grocery store and he'd stay there for an extra half-hour, talking to someone about cards or sports."

As Bedard looks to the future, he knows that his grandfather will always be with him, cheering him on from above. And with Garth's spirit driving him forward, there's no telling what kind of greatness Bedard will achieve in his hockey career.

"I hope I'm making him proud," he said

Based on his incredible season so far, there's no doubt that he is.


A look at the young hockey sensation: Connor Bedard

Connor Bedard is a young Canadian hockey player who has been making headlines in the sports world. Born on July 17, 2005, in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Bedard has been passionate about hockey since he was three years old. His parents have described him as always having a ball and hockey stick with him, even when he wasn't on the ice.

Connor Bedard was selected as the first pick by the Regina Pats in the WHL Bantam Draft in 2020 and has set records throughout his career. He is now projected to be the first pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.

Despite his young age, Connor Bedard is already a role model to many, and he credits his sister Madisen.

The strong bond between Bedard and his sister was on full display when he decided to play hockey in Sweden due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Madisen joined him there to offer support and companionship.

Edited by Nicolaas Ackermann
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