An Open Letter from Connor Bedard to Auston Matthews, Fans, and the Entire Chicago Blackhawks Community
Dear Auston, Fans, and the Chicago Blackhawks Community,
As I sit here reflecting on the journey that has brought me to this incredible moment, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement. It’s not every day that a player like me gets to step into the shoes of a legend, representing a storied franchise like the Chicago Blackhawks. But before I get into my own personal thoughts, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the people who have shaped my path in this game—the players, the fans, and the community that have supported me and countless others.
First, Auston. We’ve shared many great moments on the ice, and while we’ve been opponents for much of our careers, I’ve always had the utmost respect for the way you play the game. Your skill, your leadership, and your ability to score in the clutch are qualities that I deeply admire. Watching you from afar has been a constant source of inspiration for me, and I’m eager to compete against you in the years to come. To me, you represent the next generation of hockey talent, and I know I have much to learn from players like you.
To the fans, I want to say thank you. Your energy and passion are what make the game of hockey so special. Every time I step onto the ice at the United Center, I feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility, knowing that I’m not just playing for myself but for a city, a fanbase, and a culture that has supported this team through thick and thin. Chicago isn’t just a city with a rich hockey history—it’s a city that lives and breathes the sport. The stories of the Blackhawks’ past, the great players and teams that have come before me, fuel my drive to help bring this team back to the top.
I know that the expectations are high, and while I’m ready for the challenge, I also want to remind everyone that I’m just beginning my journey. The road to greatness is never easy, and it will take time. But I promise you this—I’ll give everything I have to this team, every single game. I won’t take a shift off, and I’ll strive to grow as a player, teammate, and person every day. Chicago deserves a team that plays with heart, grit, and passion, and I’m excited to contribute to that identity.
To the entire Blackhawks community, thank you for welcoming me with open arms. The love and excitement that have surrounded my arrival have been humbling. I know that this is just the beginning of what will be a long and rewarding journey, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of it. It’s not lost on me that this organization is filled with incredible history, and I’m honored to be a part of writing the next chapter.
I’m also deeply aware of the incredible responsibility that comes with wearing this jersey. I know that many great players have walked these halls before me, and I hope to add to that legacy in my own way. With your support, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together. I’m excited for what lies ahead, and I can’t wait to continue this journey with all of you.
Thank you for believing in me. Let’s go Hawks.
Sincerely,
Connor Bedard
Leave a Reply