Hundreds line up in Waterdown, Ont., to see hometown NHL star Carter Verhaeghe and the Stanley Cup

NHL Star Carter Verhaeghe Makes Waterdown a Hockey Hotspot: Wings Out of the Cup!
Excitement filled the air at the Harry Howell Arena in Waterdown, Ont., as Florida Panthers winger Carter Verhaeghe brought the coveted Stanley Cup to the delight of 500 eager fans on Monday. Following his recent victory over the Edmonton Oilers in Game 7, Verhaeghe’s plans for the day remained a mystery to his adoring supporters. However, his wife Casey Engleson spilled the beans, revealing their lunch destination – Verhaeghe’s childhood favorite, Turtle Jack’s in Waterdown, where he hoped to indulge in some wings straight out of the Cup.
The tradition of eating and drinking from the Stanley Cup during a champion’s one-day visit has been a beloved custom since 1995. Fans young and old lined up at the arena, eager to catch a glimpse of the NHL star and the iconic trophy. Austin Forbes, a 10-year-old Waterdown resident, shared his excitement, stating, “All the NHL players have held it,” as he awaited Verhaeghe’s arrival alongside his great-aunt.
As the morning unfolded, a festive atmosphere enveloped the arena as children donning hockey gear played games and eagerly anticipated the hockey star’s entrance. Young fans like Mats Uznanski and duo Kingsley Baker and Zarah Alesi, goalie partners from the Brampton Canadettes, expressed their admiration for Verhaeghe and his journey to NHL stardom.
When Verhaeghe finally emerged with the Stanley Cup, he was greeted by a sea of enthusiastic children, illustrating the impact of his visit on the local community. Inside, amidst photo opportunities and heartfelt interactions, the hockey player shared words of wisdom with aspiring young athletes, emphasizing perseverance and dedication as keys to success.
Family and supporters gathered for a pre-barbecue celebration at Verhaeghe’s parents’ home, where his grandmother, Rose, stole the spotlight with her infectious enthusiasm. Verhaeghe’s mother reflected on his childhood passion for hockey, underscoring the importance of his hometown roots in shaping his journey to the NHL.
Aunt Michelle and uncle Johan Verhaeghe fondly recounted Carter’s upbringing, highlighting his unchanged humility and work ethic despite his burgeoning fame. Amidst the joy and camaraderie, Verhaeghe’s visit to Waterdown left a lasting impression, solidifying his status as a hometown hero and inspiring

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