Alfie’s enjoying his role as a dad
Coaching his sons, helping with homework
One day, Daniel Alfredsson imagines he could return to the NHL in a management position. When that day comes, the former longtime Senators captain could very well be back in Ottawa, working with the franchise he called home for 17 of his 18 seasons.
For now, though, Alfredsson is enjoying his post-playing career in suburban Detroit just fine. thank you, happy for the time to coach his eldest sons Hugo and Loui in minor hockey and to be around to help with homework for all four of his sons.
If the new stay-at-home Dad routine seems a tad low key compared to his former high-profile big-league lifestyle, Alfredsson isn’t complaining one bit.
“This is not going to sell a lot of papers, but it has been drastically different than being an NHL player, but it has been fun,” Alfredsson said, with a laugh, Thursday as he was back in Ottawa to receive the key to the city.
Alfredsson says he is humbled and proud of the honour, which he believes is as much about lending his voice to discussions about mental illness and for his charity work as it is about his abilities as a hockey player. The off-ice contributions also made him feel more in tune with the community.
“I understand the recognition I get in this city,” he said. “I’m very proud to be getting that recognition. It’s something I want to share with everyone.”
Again, though, Alfredsson isn’t ready to commit to coming back here. Or going anywhere else, for that matter. While it has been a long winter, he has enjoyed the time to kick back, catch up with the family, to have a few minutes to finish a book if he wants to and to not think too deeply about what’s next.
Alfredsson says he has seen only two games in person this season. One came when he was brought back to Canadian Tire Centre to retire as a Senator in December following his one season with the Detroit Red Wings. The other came when he returned to Ottawa as Chris Phillips was honoured for breaking his franchise record for most games played as a Senator.
“I have watched more in the last few weeks, both Ottawa and Detroit,” he said. “Overall, surprisingly, I’ve liked the down time more than I thought I would. I take it as it comes and enjoy it. I feel like there’s a lot less stress in me, I’m a lot more patient than I used to be.”
When the school year ends, the family will be faced with a decision on whether to stay in Detroit, move back to Ottawa (“we miss the friendships”) or to do something else altogether. Alfredsson stresses that several voices will be heard.
“First and foremost, (wife, Bibi) will have a big part in the decision and what’s best for the kids, that’s what we’re talking about. We’re in no rush to make a decision. We’ve not dug into any deep discussions yet.” Alfredsson also says he hasn’t given any deep thought to what comes next, work wise, but he recognizes that hockey is his calling card.
“It’s my education, that’s what I have. I can’t brag about much else. It’s something I’m going to be involved with somehow.”
At the same time, he’s holding up a giant STOP sign for anyone suggesting he’s next in line to replace Bryan Murray or any other NHL general manager. The more likely route is to work himself gradually into management, learning about the business as a vice-president or consultant.
“Maybe that would be the way to start, to go that route,” he said. “I’m not naïve enough to think I can step into any of those (major) positions right away. Can I help out in areas? Of course I can, with my experience. ... If I go that route, that’s probably the right way.”