Ever wondered what it's like to spend a game on the Canucks bench? T-Bird goalie Matt Hewitt was called up to the show as an emergency backup for one game, and he's come back armed with an armful of NHL swag and an experience he'll never forget.
He was on the Canucks subreddit to answer questions about what it was like, and we've compiled some highlights. Some of his answers have been lightly condensed and edited for clarity.
When did you get the call?
Around 11 a.m. I was fortunate that I didn't have class that day and could sleep in. I woke up to my team at UBC's group chat with the hype around the talk of emergency backup from UBC potential. I didn't hear anything for about 20 minutes, my coach Sven called me with excitement in his voice and said, “You're going up to play with the Canucks!”
What's the dressing room like?
Very unreal, nicest I've seen and been in. They had everything from hot tubs, cold tubs, players lounge, gym, food, etc. It was great to experience how they get treated and loved the vibe of the room. I think I could live in it. :D
Did you overhear any memorable chirps (or throw any out yourself)?
I was welcomed by all the guys, took the time to shake my hand and introduce themselves. The one guy that wasn't afraid to throw a chirp my way was Burrows, “nice haircut Hewy” — I wasn't afraid to throw one back at him and told him he should be the last guy to talk about good haircuts!
Which Canuck was the hardest to stop in warm up?
I still get nightmares from the Sedins.
What was going through your head when Markstrom got ran over and was down for a few seconds?
“Holy crap this could be my opportunity!” — haha but seriously, I knew that going into the game, any bump that Markstrom took the people were going to make it a bigger deal than usual, but I get its part of the fun! Markstrom is a big guy so I knew he could handle it. At the same time I was ready to go in if they needed me to, [for sure] I would've been nervous but at the same time I would've embraced the opportunity and gave it my all! At the end of the day I'm glad he stuck it out because he played a great game and got the team the W!
Did the team give you any presents after the game?
They let me keep the jersey, along with all the under-gear, a hoodie, and a hat! It's sweet being able to have all the Canucks swag!
How much money did you make?
They made sure to take good care of me before they sent me on my way!
How good are you at telling the Sedins apart?
Lets be honest, can any of us tell them apart?