CALGARY – It was only a preseason game in late September, but it also provided former Calgary Flame Curtis Glencross with one of his most memorable moments inside the Scotiabank Saddledome.
“I wasn’t expecting the tribute the Flames did for me during the game,” said Glencross. “When they showed me on the jumbotron, I definitely had to take a moment and take a deep breath. It was one of them moments you’ll never forget.”
Glencross was on a professional try-out with the Colorado Avalanche, and while he didn’t know it at the time, it was the last time he’d lace up the skates for a game inside the Saddledome.
RAW: Fomer Flame Curtis Glencross talks retirement
The 32-year-old retired this week after 507 NHL games over 9 seasons, 7 of which with the Flames. He finished with 134 career goals and 275 points.
Despite multiple offers to play this season in Europe, the central Alberta product put family first, deciding to retire.
“I’m at peace with it, I’m enjoying it, said Glencross. “Obviously there’s parts of the game you miss, going to the rink and hanging out with the guys everyday. Now, I’m excited to be at home with my kids. I get to do things I never got to do as much before.”
His wife, Tanya, and 3 young kids are certainly soaking up every moment as well.
“It’s fun, the kids are loving having him at home,” said Tanya. “We’re just enjoying our family.”
Glencross isn’t sure what’s next, just yet. Right now he’s focused on new milestones in life.
“Went on a school field trip with my daughter, on her third day. Took her to school on her first day,” said Glencross. “Having a new baby, 6 months old now, our little guy, I’ll get to see his first steps and sometimes you don’t always get to do that.”
Tanya, who started her career as a teacher before moving to Calgary, hopes to go back to work sometime in the future.
Calgary will continue to be home for the Glencross clan. They remain heavily involved in the community, including their annual Charity Roughstock event in Innisfail. Which is approaching a million dollars raised for the Ronald MacDonald House of Central Alberta, in just 4 years.
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