A retired East York couple, neighbours of Chris Tanev’s family, contacted us the other day with an interesting observation.
“We have always admired Chris’ absolute respect when the national anthems are played or being sung,” Frank and Mary Hawkins wrote. “He stands tall and still, he focuses on the Canadian flag and maintains complete respect throughout. He won’t move until the anthems have ended.
“Given that Remembrance Day is approaching (Monday) and we’ve all started to wear our poppies, we want to highlight his character and adherence to tradition.”
Tanev certainly has heard O Canada as the principal anthem for more than 900 games in Calgary, Vancouver and now at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena. While other NHLers might do anything from shifting on their skates to spitting as their own ritual until the last line of ‘we stand on guard for thee,’ Tanev confirms he’ll not waver until the crowd cheers the ending.
Thank Lou Spiotti Jr. for teaching Tanev that reverence. He was athletic director at Rochester Institute of Technology where Chris played defence in 2009-10.
“That was one of his rules — stand still when the anthem is playing,” Tanev told the Sun this week. “Pay your respects to whatever flag is being honoured.
“That was sort of a non-negotiable rule with Lou and one of the things I’ve kept from those days. I think it’s a good one and something that’s (appropriate).”
As a franchise with long ties to the Canadian military — goalie Sammy Herbert of the 1917 Toronto Arenas served in World War One, as did Leafs patriarch Conn Smythe in the first and second world conflicts with Hall of Famers such as Howie Meeker and Johnny Bower — the club partners in many ceremonies around Remembrance Day.
On Wednesday, several Leafs and alumni were to make an annual visit to the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre in North York.
There will be a pre-game ceremony this weekend during visits by the Red Wings and Montreal Canadiens and, after Leafs alumni participated in many trips to visit Canadian Forces personnel in Europe and the Middle East, a Forces member is still recognized at each home game.
“It’s great to see everyone with their poppies,” the 34-year-old Tanev said. “It a way to remember the people who served for our country and others. That’s the reason we’re able to do what we do today.
“You can’t thank them enough. Anything we can do to honour them is great.”
The Hawkins would like Tanev’s example followed by other fans at this time of year, noting he already sets a good workplace example for dedication by leading the NHL in blocked shots.
“We’ve met Chris and Brandon (his younger brother on the Seattle Kraken) and it’s fantastic to have Chris back in Toronto enriching the Leafs. We applaud him and hope others will emulate his regard for all those who have served our beautiful country.
“Respect, lest we forget.”
X: @sunhornby