That's what Tyson McLellan did on Sunday. A day early because Todd's oldest son goes to school in Denver. He hadn't seen his father since Christmas. From the time he started with Edmonton the older McLellan has gone out of his way to make the team, the rink, the organization a place where little people are welcome. There are many examples to cite: Let's start with Patrick and Anthony Maroon. With the winger's son stationed in St. Louis, this really is a long distance love affair. When Anthony's in Edmonton he's in the room, on the ice and most importantly around his dad. Time is limited and Todd takes that into account when it comes to allowing player's children access to the world's their father's work in.
The Maroon's may be the highest profile case but they certainly aren't the only ones. I have seen days where Mark Letestu has had one or more of his three children at the rink. Al Montoya may be new to the team but he had to be impressed by the kids' access. His son was giving him high-fives as he exited the room to hit the ice on a game night. It should also be mentioned this isn't strictly for coaches and players. This also applies to staff. I've seen Oilers Head Equipment Manager Jeff Lang's son's at the rink and the same could be said for Assistant Equipment Manager Brad Harrison's boys.
This isn't about what you make or where you play. Being a member of the Oilers has its privileges when it comes to family.
"I was used to President's Day in the U.S. but whatever it's called, it's still about spending time together," explained the hulking Lucic, whose two girls are often situated right beside Montoya's son outside the room. "We definitely appreciate the Oilers approach. I value the time with my family. Nowadays with all the social media, we get caught up with more Facetime than face to face time."
Here's hoping it's more of the latter than the former on Family Day. Hope you enjoy yours.
