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The Honorable Departure of Craig Smith
In a heartfelt announcement that reverberated across the National Hockey League, Madison’s own Craig Smith recently hung up his skates after a remarkable 14-year career. The former Badger men's hockey standout and NHL veteran played a total of 987 regular-season games and left an indelible mark on the sport.
A Look Back at Smith’s Career
Drafted by the Nashville Predators in 2009, the 6'1", 203-pound forward made his NHL debut in 2011. With a mixture of grit and finesse, Smith showcased his skills over nine seasons in Nashville, tallying more than 200 goals and nearly 500 points throughout his career. His standout moments include helping the Predators reach their first-ever Stanley Cup Final in 2017, where they battled valiantly against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Smith played alongside several prominent players, including ex-Badger greats like Ryan Suter, which added a layer of local pride to his career. His achievements also included four appearances on the American roster for the IIHF World Championships, where he earned a bronze medal in 2013!
Smith's Impact Beyond the Ice
More than just his on-ice performance, Smith is loved deeply within the Wisconsin community. He often participated in charity events and local hockey programs, sharing his experiences and skills with the youth. In doing so, he cemented himself not just as a player but as a role model.
His career statistics reflect a consistent ability to score and assist, sitting comfortably among the top ranks of Badger alumni. Smith is 8th all-time in games played by a Badger in the NHL and ranks 6th in all-time goals.
The Future of Hockey in Wisconsin
As we bid adieu to Smith, what does the future hold for Wisconsin hockey? With burgeoning interest in the sport, local hockey programs are thriving, allowing new players to emerge. The state boasts stunning outdoor recreation opportunities, including Wisconsin's spectacular skiing resorts and hiking trails, priming the next generation of athletes eager to lace up their skates.
Families venturing outdoors can take advantage of the picturesque camping sites and fishing spots often overlooked in favor of more urban activities. But fear not, because there's plenty for everyone! From snowmobiling trails in winter to kayaking routes in the summer, outdoor enthusiasts have no shortage of ways to enjoy Wisconsin’s natural beauty.
Farewell and Punchlines
Craig Smith’s journey through the NHL illustrates perseverance, teamwork, and the joy of sports. While we may not see him on the ice anymore, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of fans and young players across Wisconsin.
So as Smith embarks on this new chapter, we can't help but wonder: What’s next for him? Maybe a coaching gig—or perhaps he’ll just kick back on the couch, remind himself that he’s won a few silver hairs in the process, and binge-watch his favorite sports documentaries. One thing’s for sure: life after the NHL is bound to be an adventure—hardly a ‘comeback’ for him. After all, when you've played nearly 1,000 professional games, it's hard to imagine anything can come back to bite you harder than a broken skate blade!
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