Paul Newman, the legendary actor and philanthropist, was also a passionate hockey fan. He played the sport in his youth and continued to support it throughout his life. Born on January 26th, 1925, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Newman grew up playing hockey on frozen ponds with his friends.
Newman’s love for hockey never faded away as he got older. In fact, he became a dedicated fan of the game and even owned an interest in one of the NHL’s most storied franchises: The Cleveland Indians. Although Newman was primarily known for his work in Hollywood as an actor and director, it is clear that his passion for hockey ran deep.
In addition to owning a stake in the Cleveland Indians (which later became the Minnesota North Stars), Newman was also an avid supporter of other teams around the league. He frequently attended games at Madison Square Garden where he would cheer on the New York Rangers. It wasn’t uncommon to see him sitting rinkside with fellow celebrities such as Billy Crystal and John McEnroe.
Newman’s connection to hockey went beyond just being a spectator or owner; he had actual skills on ice. As mentioned earlier, he played when he was younger but then took up skating again during filming breaks while shooting movies like “Slap Shot” and “Nobody’s Fool.” Additionally, he participated in charity games over the years to raise money for various causes – showcasing both his prowess on skates and desire to give back.
One example of how much Paul loved hockey can be found in his relationship with Gordie Howe – arguably one of the greatest players ever to lace up skates. When Howe retired from pro-hockey after winning four Stanley Cups with Detroit Red Wings plus six Hart Trophies (MVP awards) among numerous other accolades – Newman wrote him a letter thanking him for all those years of entertainment before signing off by saying “I’m going into mourning.” Newman was a fan of the sport and its players, recognizing their hard work and dedication to the game.
Newman’s philanthropic endeavors were well known throughout his life. He established the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in 1988 – a summer camp for kids who suffer from serious illnesses. The camp provides children with an opportunity to experience outdoor activities like swimming, horseback riding, arts and crafts, and yes – even hockey. Newman believed that every child should have access to these experiences regardless of their medical condition or financial situation.
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp also has a connection to hockey through its partnership with NHL Players Association (NHLPA). In 2017, former NHL player Ryan Whitney visited the Connecticut-based facility where he played ball hockey with some of the kids while wearing a Paul Newman jersey. The visit was part of an initiative by NHLPA and You Can Play Project aimed at promoting inclusion within sports communities.
Newman’s legacy lives on today through his passion for hockey and charitable works. His love for the sport is evident through stories shared by those who knew him personally – such as actor Michael Ontkean who co-starred alongside him in “Slap Shot.” In an interview with ESPN.com, Ontkean recalled how Newman would always bring up plays from past games when they were on set together: “He’d say things like ‘Did you see that move? That’s what I used to do back in Cleveland.'”
Overall, Paul Newman was much more than just an actor or philanthropist; he was someone who loved hockey deeply and wanted others to share that experience as well. Whether it be owning a team or playing himself, supporting charities or simply talking about past games on film sets – his passion for this great sport will not be forgotten anytime soon!