Steve Bégin bankruptcy: What forced ex-Habs player to declare insolvency?

Steve Bégin, a former Montreal Canadiens player, announced his bankruptcy at the age of 46 on Thursday.

Bégin shared the news on Facebook and explained the difficulties he faced. His financial troubles came from a failed civil engineering investment.

"The civil engineering company in which I had been proposed to invest large sums of money since 2013, has gone bankrupt, which has had a negative impact on my financial situation and consequently also caused a bankruptcy," Bégin said.

Despite the tough situation, Bégin chose to speak publicly about it in hopes of sharing lessons from his experience.

"I could have tried to avoid the subject, but opted to talk openly about it, as I believe there are lessons to be learned," he continued.

"I find this experience very trying, disappointing and above all hurtful for me and those close to me, but as always, I'll keep pushing forward to achieve great projects despite this ordeal."

Bégin, who played for the Canadiens from 2003 to 2009, was known for his energetic style. In his NHL career, he played 524 games, scored 56 goals and made 52 assists. He also played for the Calgary Flames, Dallas Stars, Boston Bruins and Nashville Predators.

He was selected 40th overall by the Flames in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft. He retired from professional hockey on January 16, 2014. Despite current financial issues, his determination suggests he will keep moving forward.

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Steve Bégin's personal life and early struggles

Steve Bégin grew up in Trois-Rivières, Quebec. His father, Gilles, raised him alone on a landscaper's income. They relied on welfare, and Bégin helped his father until he was 18.

Bégin started playing hockey using second-hand equipment at the age of six, but he was confident that he would reach the NHL. He moved to Val-d'Or for junior hockey and that was where he met his wife, Amelie. They now live in Montreal with their two daughters.

Following his father's advice, Bégin focused on being a defensive player. He was inspired by role models like Mario Tremblay and Guy Carbonneau. However, his physical style often led to injuries.

In 2013, upon returning with the Flames, he missed the physical play. Despite this, coaches like Bob Hartley praised his leadership and important role in the league.