Michigan Live describes how Jordin Tootoo figures nobody will have trouble identifying his dad during the Detroit Red Wings’ eighth annual Fathers/Mentors trip.
“Big, bad Barney,” Tootoo said. “If you see a little brown boy wobbling around here, that’s probably my dad. Stacked. He’s four-feet tall and probably about 220 pounds. Just a little raging bull.”
So the apple didn’t fall far from the tree in that regard.
The dad’s trip started Saturday in Minnesota and runs through Tuesday in Nashville. Some brought their brother, father-in-law or just a buddy. They get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes on with the team during practices, traveling and preparation for games.
Most NHL teams are now doing a fathers trip. Tootoo experienced it before with Nashville.
“Our parents have been there through thick and thin and this is kind of a ‘thank you’ to them for showing us the ropes,” Tootoo said. “And now it’s kind of our turn to show them what we do on a daily basis. I think it’s a great opportunity for all of our fathers to reflect on their kids’ pasts, reminisce and have a good time with each other.”
