Konstantinov thrills fans at local comic convention
Windsor's John Budinsky is a huge Detroit Red Wings fan but he had never met a professional hockey player in person. That changed Saturday.
Budinsky was beaming with pleasure after speaking with former Red Wing Vladimir Konstantinov, who signed a team photo for him while making an appearance at Saturday's Rose City Comic Convention.
“When (the Detroit Red Wings) won the Stanley Cup in '97, Vlady was one of my favourite players and he was a warrior,” Budinsky said.
“I heard he was coming to Windsor — I've actually never met an NHL player before — so Vlady's my first one,” he said. “And I thought, I have this (team) picture, I'd love Vlady to sign it.
“Even though he had a short career, I can just imagine what would have happened if he was healthy his whole career.”
Konstantinov was making his first convention appearance — and first Canadian appearance at any event — since his tragic, career-ending accident in 1997.
During his time with the Red Wings, Konstantinov was an NHL all-star defenceman and Norris Trophy finalist.
But just days after the Red Wings won the 1996-97 Stanley Cup title, he was a passenger in a limousine that crashed into a tree on Woodward Avenue in Birmingham while returning from a golf outing.
Konstantinov was critically injured, along with teammate Slava Fetisov and team masseur Sergei Mnatsakanov. The then 30-yearold was left with debilitating brain injuries and uses a wheelchair for mobility.
Funds raised during Saturday's appearance benefited the Vladimir Konstantinov Special Needs Trust to help with costs associated with his daily care.
Hundreds of people streamed through the doors at the Caboto Club on Saturday to browse vendor tables stacked high with comics, collectibles, toys, posters, original art, jewelry and more.
Hall of Fame Marvel Comics artist Ken Lashley, Marvel Studios animator Michael Otto, Image Comics artist Nick Marinkovich and My Little Pony voice actor Sam Bielanski made guest appearances, along with Barbie animator Cassandra Giles and comic book model Carla Homenick (Carla Homicide).
New this year was a Comics Cavalcade room offering entertainment for families and children that included dollar carnival games with prizes, video games, face-painting, arts and crafts, a billiard table.
A trick shot exhibition was also held.
Visitors dressed as their favourite costumed character strolled the aisles, stopping occasionally for a photo request.
Promoter Michael Michalski said Rose City Comic Convention is Windsor's longest running, family-friendly, all-ages entertainment extravaganza.
“Since 2012, we're proud to have had tens of thousands of attendees enjoy our events,” Michalski said. “This year, we expect another 2,000-plus will be on hand to take in the fun.
“More than just a “comics” show — (it's) a pop culture happening.”
A portion of the proceeds from the event was earmarked for The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County.