Hockey Helps the Homeless and MANY Hockey Stories - FT Keith Acton - 305B
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In this episode of Tales with TR, host Terry Ryan Jr. welcomes legendary NHL player Keith Acton, a 1,000-game veteran who won a Stanley Cup with the Edmonton Oilers and led the Montreal Canadiens in scoring during the 1981-82 season. The conversation dives deep into Acton’s journey from a small-town Ontario upbringing in Stouffville to becoming a key figure in junior hockey with the Peterborough Petes, overcoming doubts about his size through clever tactics like adding lifts to his socks during draft evaluations. He shares vivid memories of playing alongside Hall of Famers Guy Lafleur and Steve Shutt, emphasizing the culture of excellence and self-discipline they instilled. Acton reflects on his time in the NHL, including his pivotal role in the Oilers' 1987-88 championship run, his evolution as a face-off specialist, and his later career as a penalty-killing fourth-line player in Philadelphia. He also discusses his post-playing life, including coaching, his beloved nickname 'Woody,' and his continued involvement in charity events like Hockey Helps the Homeless. The episode closes with rapid-fire fun questions, revealing Acton’s love for golf, Springsteen concerts, and his deep-rooted values of kindness and integrity.
Overcome size stereotypes through clever preparation—Acton used hidden lifts and weights to appear taller and heavier during NHL draft evaluations.
The culture of excellence in teams like the Montreal Canadiens and Edmonton Oilers was built on self-discipline, fear of underperforming, and relentless work ethic.
Leadership isn't just about stats—it's about mentorship, like when Bill Riley told Acton to believe in himself and play with confidence.
Charity hockey events like Hockey Helps the Homeless are powerful platforms for community building, intergenerational connection, and giving back.
True success comes from sacrifice and trust—Acton earned respect in Hershey by playing 12 games as a retired assistant coach to inspire young players.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction & Guest Welcome
Terry Ryan Jr. introduces the podcast and welcomes Keith Acton, highlighting his 1,000+ NHL games, Stanley Cup win, and ongoing involvement in charity hockey events like Hockey Helps the Homeless.
From Stouffville to Peterborough
Acton shares his roots in Stouffville, Ontario, a close-knit community where hockey was central. He reflects on early mentors like Bob Hazard, a former Maple Leafs player, and how the town shaped his values and work ethic.
The Draft Deception & Early Career
“I was about two inches taller than I really was, 10 pounds heavier, but I don't know if it helped... maybe it got me drafted in the sixth round.”
Montreal & the Legacy of Lafleur and Schutt
“They played in fear of playing at a level below where they were supposed to be. That was the approach.”
The Rise of a Centerman & Face-Off Mastery
“I learned the face-off principles from taking face-offs against Bobby Clark and Daryl Sittler... every time I was taking face-offs against them, I was really taking notes.”
“You can be as good a person as you can be and treat others like I'd like to be treated. That power is contagious.”
“You're playing on my line. Make no mistake, you're a burger.”
“If you do those things, then whatever the hell goes on, then you're probably guaranteed a seat in the heaven or a spot at the Garden of Eden.”
Host
Guest
Keith Acton
person
Terry Ryan Jr.
person
Montreal Canadiens
other
Edmonton Oilers
other
Guy Lafleur
person
Stouffville
place
Steve Shutt
person
Hockey Helps the Homeless
organization
Peterborough Petes
other
Bill Riley
person
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