Eli Manning spent Saturday in Ottawa in full hockey dad mode, watching the Senators at Canadian Tire Centre alongside his daughter’s youth team and their families while in town for a tournament.
Eli Manning’s Journey into Hockey
The former New York Giants quarterback joined the Sportsnet broadcast during an intermission to discuss how he has recently gotten into hockey. Raised in New Orleans, he said the sport wasn’t a big part of his childhood, and he is now learning it with his 10-year-old daughter. Based in New Jersey after 16 seasons with the Giants, he noted that his daughter’s team includes plenty of New Jersey Devils supporters, a detail the interviewer playfully waved off.
Manning praised the athleticism and control displayed by NHL players. He emphasized the skill level required to compete at such a high level, which has helped him appreciate the sport more as he engages with it through his daughter. When asked to compare potential hockey skills with his older brother, Peyton, he responded with a joking, noncommittal answer, showcasing his signature humor.
A two-time Super Bowl champion, Manning ranks 11th in NFL history in passing yards, passing touchdowns, and completions. His transition from football to becoming a hockey dad highlights the versatility of athletes and their ability to embrace new sports and experiences. As he spends more time at the rink, Manning’s involvement in hockey will undoubtedly grow, bridging the gap between his legendary football career and his new role as a supportive parent.
As Eli Manning continues to explore the world of hockey, fans can look forward to seeing how this former NFL star embraces the challenges and joys of being a hockey dad. His journey serves as an inspiration for other parents who are navigating new sports with their children, proving that it’s never too late to learn something new and support the next generation in their athletic pursuits.