Wendel Clark
Wendel Clark was one of the most beloved players to ever wear the Toronto Maple Leafs jersey. The former team captain’s rambunctious playing style and exceptional talent on the ice endeared him to fans. Now an ambassador for the team and the author of his bestselling memoir, Bleeding Blue: Giving My All for the Game, Wendel’s star power continues to shine.
Wendel retired from the NHL in 2000. His last season brought his career full circle from its beginnings in 1985 with the Leafs. During his triumphant career, Wendel recorded 330 goals, 234 assists, 564 points, and 1,690 penalty minutes. He was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team and was second in voting for the Calder Trophy. He was also selected to the NHL All-Star Game in 1986 and 1999. Wendel had his jersey number “17” retired by the Maple Leafs and, in 2017, was honoured once again with his statue unveiled on Legends Row outside of the Scotiabank Arena.
Wendel is an active entrepreneur with five Wendel Clark Classic Grill restaurants across Ontario and Saskatchewan. He lends his name to various charity endeavours across Canada, including his own Wendel Clark Charity Golf Classic, now in its 20th year, and the Wendel Clark Muskoka Ice Cup, which had its first game in 2022.