Bruins goalie Swayman reveals origin of goalie hug with Ullmark

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Hunter Bowman
August 18, 2023 (10:04 PM)

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Jeremy Swayman, the dynamic goaltender who forms one-half of the formidable Boston Bruins goalie tandem, is not only known for his prowess on the ice but also for being the driving force behind the heartwarming tradition known as the goalie hug.

The tale of this unique tradition unfolded as the Alaskan native engaged in a lively conversation with Dan and Chris Powers on their captivating "Empty Netters" podcast.

Swayman's voice resonated with enthusiasm as he revealed the origins of the goalie hug phenomenon that has captivated fans.

«I've actually been hugging goalies since college,» Swayman told the brothers. «Not too many people know that, but I just love the boys, and the goalie-to-goalie relationship is pretty unique because there's only one net and it's really something we compete for, right? And sometimes guys aren't going to get along so I just took it as an opportunity to make each other better.»

In recounting his journey, Swayman vividly recalled the inception of the now-iconic goalie hug with his partner in the crease, Linus Ullmark.

«It was an instant connection,» Swayman said. «I knew that he was going to be an awesome dude and just a great competitor and a partner to be with, the hug was so natural. We were doing it in training camp just out of nowhere. To see what it is today is nothing like we could have imagined and it's been pretty special to see how the fan base and the hockey community as a whole has taken to it.»

When asked about his goaltending style, Swayman confessed that he draws inspiration from a blend of goaltending greats, including Carey Price, Ben Bishop, Pekka Rinne, and former Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask.

«I'm a visual learner so watching them, I just wanted to model my game after them,» Swayman explained.»To this day, I don't label myself as a cookie cutter goaltender. I just do whatever I have to do to stop the puck and that's when I have the most fun because I just blackout and just have a blast gettign in front of that little (puck). It's awesome.»

As the Bruins gear up for the impending training camp on September 20, an air of anticipation surrounds the team's lineup transformation.

However, the reassuring presence of both Swayman and Ullmark in the net ensures that the tradition of goalie hugs will persist throughout the momentous centennial season, promising heartwarming moments for the devoted Bruins faithful.

Source: Nesn