The Calgary Flames recently achieved a historic milestone, featuring two goalies from California on the same team. Dustin Wolf and Devin Cooley, both hailing from San Jose, reflect on their unique journey as they step onto the ice together.
Historic Homecoming for Flames’ Goalies
On Tuesday evening, the Flames faced the San Jose Sharks in a compelling match that marked a rare homecoming for their starting goalie, Dustin Wolf. As a local product, it was a moment of pride. What made this matchup even more exceptional was the presence of his fellow goalie, Devin Cooley, also from San Jose.
Father and Sons: A Special Connection
The occasion was made even more meaningful by the participation of their fathers, Mike Wolf and Scott Cooley. Both fathers shared a passion for hockey, creating backyard rinks to foster their sons’ love for the game. Mike humorously recalled how he sourced synthetic ice panels from Hawaii, transforming his backyard into a practice rink.
- Mike Wolf: Built a backyard rink using synthetic ice sourced from Hawaii.
- Scott Cooley: Developed his rink with materials from a closed local roller rink.
Both parents found innovative ways to overcome the lack of ice time, which can cost up to $500 per hour in San Jose. Their efforts allowed their sons to practice and develop their skills in a non-traditional environment.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite the challenges posed by the California climate, both Wolf and Cooley attribute their success in the NHL to their makeshift rinks. Wolf noted, “I give a lot of credit to that rink.” Meanwhile, Cooley emphasized the importance of street hockey in building their athletic skills.
- Both goalies have a .904 save percentage, ranking ninth in the league.
- They believe their unconventional paths have paved the way for future California hockey players.
Breaking Barriers in Hockey
Entering an increasingly competitive league, these two Californians represent a growing interest in hockey within the state. Cooley remarked, “It’s just so cool. I don’t even know if there’s anyone else in the NHL from Northern California, let alone two goalies on the same team.”
The journey of Wolf and Cooley is not just about personal achievement; it symbolizes a significant step forward for hockey in California. As they continue to make headlines, their story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes who dare to dream beyond traditional boundaries.
