FEATURE: My Husband, Marian Hossa

I met Marian Hossa 18 years ago during the NHL lockout in 2004, when he was playing with the Ottawa Senators. That season, he stayed in Europe, so we had a chance to get to know each other and spent a lot of time together. At the time, I didn't know much about his career or the NHL. The next NHL season, we left together for the U.S.
I had no idea what it would be like to live with a professional athlete. He was dedicated to hockey 100% -- always focused and ready. He was never late for practice and would never skip a meeting or anything. Even during the summer as he was getting ready for the upcoming season, practicing twice a day, I tried to convince him to skip a practice here and there and do something fun, but I didn't have a chance. He was always so responsible and dedicated.
I believe that was a huge part of his success: determination, hard work, accountability and organization. On and off the ice.

MARIAN HOSSA LINKS
BLOG: Hossa Reflects on Career Before Jersey Retirement
NEWS: Hossa Jersey Retirement Ceremony to Start at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday
VERDICT: Hossa A First-Ballot Hall of Famer
Another part of his success was his mind. He was able to handle the pressure and his success. He didn't fly too high. He always stayed on the ground with both of his feet, firmly planted. Despite his great career, he is humble, polite and friendly, but also so respectful. I think that's one of the reasons why the Chicago Blackhawks wanted him to be part of their team. He's not only respectful as a player, but also as a person.
He is very lucky that he could do what he loved for so many years. He had huge talent, but without the hard work, health, and some luck, talent alone would not have be enough. He was so happy that he could play until the age of 38.

I believe that another little piece of the puzzle was his private life. Family. Home. Support. So important. I tried to create a warm home and give him the best support I could, so he could focus on his job. It was not always easy.
All these pieces made him a great hockey player. I am proud of him for everything that he achieved. It is a huge honor to have his number 81 retired in the United Center. It means a lot to our family. We are thankful to the Blackhawks organization. From the very beginning we felt welcome here in Chicago. The city became our second home, and the place where our second daughter was born. We'll always be connected to this city.
I would like to thank all the hockey fans for your support over the years. Hockey is a beautiful sport, and the fans were always great to us. I know Marian loved to play for you.