Great Sparks!
Very few hockey players are drafted into the NHL let alone get to play in an NHL game. If you are great and lucky and persistent and chosen for The Show, you hope for a shot.
If you are a goalie, you hope that your debut will result in good play and hopefully a win. Never in your wildest dreams do you expect a shutout. And you never imagine being the first goalie in Leafs' history to achieve a shutout in your first NHL debut game.
When he was awarded the first star, Sparks was overwhelmed with emotion. It was a proud hockey moment for everyone who witnessed it, no doubt particularly special for Sparks' family and friends who have supported and fostered his career since he started playing at age 5 or 6.
Congratulations Garret. Everyone who enjoys the game is thrilled for you.
