Washington Capitals captain, Alex Ovechkin hails from a humble background. His stardom is the consequence of years of compromise, and massive efforts by him and his parents. The Russian athlete is regarded as among the greatest players in the NHL community. Therefore, his nickname, ‘The Great Eight’. Moreover, a heartwarming video has surfaced on the internet, of the athlete and The Last of Us actor, Keivonn Woodard meeting each other ahead of Black History Night.
In a series of Twitter posts, Ovi and the 10-year-old star, who aspires to be the first deaf hockey player, got together on Friday’s ice session and enjoyed an eventful day. Moreover, the NHL icon conquered hearts with his admirable gesture, that has left the sports community in awe.
Alex Ovechkin meets his little follower.
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As per the social media updates, the 37-year-old left winger sat and communicated with Woodard through sign language and even gifted him a hockey stick. A sign language interpreter was present at the scene and helped Ovi with getting his words across. The little hockey aspirant was exhilarated to see his idol standing in front of him, and froze at the first glimpse.
Soon coming to terms with the reality, he grabbed an adorable hug from Ovechkin, followed by the cool gift being presented to him. Moments later, the two sat and had a brief sign language conversation that garnered massive attention from fans, commending Ovi for his gesture.
Ovechkin signing with local player and Last of Us star Keivonn Woodard.
Woodard wants to become the first deaf NHL player. pic.twitter.com/Yoy5L1vtFr
— Sammi Silber (@sammisilber) February 24, 2023
Additionally, Woodard also enjoyed a practice game with Charlie Lindgren on the ice. Interestingly, he managed to shoot a goal against the player, which added to the day’s specialty. The actor also plays for the Bowie Hockey Club and dreams to be the first African-American deaf athlete in NHL. However, the tables turned when Ovechkin met his own NHL hero.
Alex Ovechkin once met Wayne Gretzky
In 2016, the Capitals player met his hockey idol, Wayne Gretzky. As per an interview, the two spent a blissful time having sushi in Malibu, California. Unsurprisingly, they racked their brains on everything hockey. Ovi passionately sought The Great One’s advice and kept bugging him with one question, “What can I do to contribute to winning a Stanley Cup for the Washington Capitals and the city of Washington?”
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After absorbing all his wisdom and advice, The Great Eight requested a special gift from Gretzky. He asked for one of Gretzky’s game-playing sticks for his treasured Ovi sticks collection. However, the Oilers’ veteran promised to send one after Ovechkin won a Stanley Cup. He finally received one in 2018 after the Capitals’ grand victory. “Finally, I get the stick and I was happy like a little kid to have a Christmas gift. It’s in my collection,” he exclaimed in joy.
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What did you think of the heartfelt moment? How soon do you think Woodard will be hitting the ice from now? Let us know in the comments.