Hockey

A game-winning goal in overtime is normally celebrated with hugs and smiles from teammates.

The party didn’t last long for Zac Dalpe on Feb. 11 at Quicken Loans Arena, however. When his shot from the right circle 32 seconds into overtime beat Manitoba goalie Jamie Phillips high on the glove side for a 3-2 Monsters’ win, he scored with a heavy heart.

Dalpe learned in the morning that one of his best friends died in a car accident in Brantford, Ontario, Canada the night before. He thought about sitting out the game against the Moose but decided that isn’t what his friend would want.

“I don’t think he would have wanted me to take today off,” said Dalpe. “That’s for sure. Thank God I have a kid and a fiancée to keep me busy. It was a rough morning, but I’m going to be back home at some point this week to support the family and do a job back home.”