Chris Chelios at 47 Still has the Desire

Chris Chelios is ready to prove that even at the advanced age of 47 he can still compete and excel in playing against athletes more than half his age. Even though this 25 -year veteran didn’t draw any interest from teams in the off- season he is still convinced that someone will eventually pick him up and that he could be a big help to someone down the road. “The (Chicago) Wolves gave me a great opportunity,” Chelios who scored 948 points in his NHL career said about joining the Chicago Wolves who are in the American Hockey League. “It’s going to be fun and I intend to have a good time with these guys.” The Wolves who are an affiliate of the Atlanta Thrashers know that the experience of this three- time Stanley Cup winner who in his career has played for the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings can be a huge boost to the team. That being said coach Don Granato knows that with no training camp it more than likely will take some time before Chelios is up to speed. “He’s been in this business a long time because he’s a competitior and certainly knows what he’s doing,” Granato said. “He’ll acclimate and in fairness to him it takes time, especially not having training camp. But the talent and competitiveness are there.” It’s not everyday that a three time Norris Trophy winner who after playing 1,644 games in a first ballot hall of fame career has readily agreed to play in the American Hockey League. This shows me that Chelios who incidentally hails from Chicago is playing not for more money but the pure love of the game. Still he doesn’t hide the fact that he has a definite goal in mind that he is determined to accomplish. “Right now, my thought is getting ready to play here,” Chelios said. “I’ve got a big challenge to prove to myself and a lot of people that I can still play.” Overcoming the obstacle of slowing down and catching on with a team down the stretch or at Christmas time would be the ultimate feel good story of the year. 29sports wishes Chelios luck.