Hage Scores! Michigan Star Honors Dad After Tragedy

Hage Scores! Michigan Star Honors Dad After Tragedy

Michael Hage is back on the ice, scoring goals and making plays for the top-ranked University of Michigan Wolverines. Every time he steps onto the rink, he feels a deep sense of gratitude, a feeling amplified by the tough times he’s faced. “Every day I come here, I just feel so happy that, you know, I get to put on that jersey and play a game that I love to play,” Hage shared. His journey has been filled with unexpected turns, but he’s determined to keep moving forward.

A Passion for Hockey, A Family Affair

Hage’s love for hockey was sparked early, thanks to his father, Allan. Allan, a huge Montreal Canadiens fan, passed his passion onto Michael and his brother, Alex. They grew up watching games in their Canadiens onesies and spending hours on the ice with their dad. “It was definitely something that they shared together,” Hage said about his time with his father. “And that was really, you know, the big kind of changing point in my life. I would say.” These early moments on the ice with his dad were pure joy and laid the foundation for his future.

Adversity Strikes: Injury and Heartbreak

In August 2022, at just 16 years old, Hage moved to the U.S. to chase his hockey dreams. But his path took a difficult turn when he suffered a severe shoulder injury during practice. The recovery took a long and painful eight to nine months. “It was just disappointing,” Hage recalled. “I remember when I was out for such a long time. Yeah, it sucked.” His family was there to support him through it all, with his mother massaging his fingers to help with the numbness from his cast.

Just as he was getting back on the ice, tragedy struck again. On July 7th, 2023, Hage’s father, Allan, passed away unexpectedly. Allan had dived into a pool and hit his head, suffering a fatal injury. “It was one of the hardest things of my life. And it was just like this didn’t feel real, honestly,” Hage said, describing the horrific moment. His brother and a friend tried CPR, but nothing worked. Allan passed away that evening at the age of 51.

Moving Forward: Honoring a Legacy

Two months after his father’s death, Hage decided to heed his mother’s advice: “Don’t move on, just move forward.” He returned to Chicago, determined to prove he could still play at a high level. He had a strong season and hoped to be drafted into the NHL.

At the 2024 NHL Draft, held at the Sphere in Las Vegas, Hage’s dream felt within reach, and his father’s memory was close. He had pictures of his father inside his draft jacket and the quote, “Don’t move on, just move forward.” The back of his suit jacket read, “Long live Allan Hage.” When the Montreal Canadiens picked at number 21, Hage felt a strong connection. “I was really hoping they’re going to take me,” he said. Hearing his name called by the Canadiens was an emotional moment, a sign from his dad. “This is a sign from dad, baby!” he exclaimed. “I was just like so relieved. Just one of the craziest feelings I’ve ever felt. Like just so happy.” His mom and brother shared in the overwhelming joy.

Back on the Ice, Playing with Purpose

Now, Hage is back with the University of Michigan, a top team in the country. He’s a key player for the Wolverines, who are facing off against rivals like Michigan State. His talent is undeniable, with scouts noting his size, skating, and playmaking ability. “Every time the pucks on his stick you think there could be some highlight reel coming,” one observer noted. Hage even scored fresh out of the penalty box in a big game against Michigan State, a moment that had fans cheering wildly.

Hage’s journey is a testament to his strength and resilience. He didn’t let the tragedy break him. Instead, he’s using his experiences to fuel his game and honor his father’s memory. “He didn’t let that accident bring him down. And I think for him, everything he did from that point on was to honor his dad,” said someone close to the team. Hage is proud of the path he’s taken, living by the values his father instilled. “I think done a pretty good job of taking it and trying to kind of move forward with my life and, you know, do everything he wanted me to do with the values he kind of instilled in in me, my brother,” he shared.

Source: How Michael Hage has overcome adversity and heartbreak in his hockey career | Game On (YouTube)