Former St. Louis Blues player Brett Hull recently shared a hilarious story about his former coach, Mike Keenan, and his intense focus on fitness. The story, shared by Hull on the Heavy Sports website, highlights the unique relationship between the two and the dedication of Keenan to keeping his players in top shape.
Hull, a Hall of Fame winger who played for the Blues from 1988 to 1998, recalled a moment during his time with the team when Keenan’s emphasis on fitness was taken to the extreme. The team had just finished a grueling practice and Keenan called a meeting to discuss the importance of staying in shape. As the players sat in the locker room, Keenan pulled out a bag of chips and began to eat them in front of his team.
Hull, known for his sharp wit and humor, couldn’t resist making a comment. He asked Keenan if the chips were part of his new fitness regime. Keenan, not one to back down, replied that they were “low-fat” chips. This sparked a hilarious back and forth between the two, with Hull jokingly questioning Keenan’s definition of “low-fat”.
The moment not only provided a good laugh for the team, but it also showed the unique relationship between Keenan and his players. Despite his tough coaching style, Keenan was able to connect with his players and keep them motivated with his quirky sense of humor.
This was not the only time Keenan’s focus on fitness was put to the test. Hull also shared a story about how Keenan would make the players do push-ups during TV timeouts if they were not playing up to his standards. This may seem extreme, but it was all part of Keenan’s philosophy of pushing his players to be the best they could be.
While some may view Keenan’s methods as unorthodox, there is no denying the success he had with the Blues. Under his leadership, the team had a record of 188 wins, 136 losses, and 42 ties. He also led the team to their first ever President’s Trophy in the 1999-2000 season.
Keenan’s focus on fitness was just one aspect of his coaching style. He was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to motivate his players to give their all on the ice. His dedication to keeping his players in top shape was just one way he showed his commitment to the team’s success.
Hull’s story about Keenan’s emphasis on fitness not only provides a humorous anecdote, but it also sheds light on the importance of staying physically fit in the world of professional sports. In order to compete at the highest level, athletes must not only have skill and talent, but also the physical stamina to endure the demands of the game.
The story also highlights the importance of having a positive and supportive coach, like Keenan, who is able to connect with their players and create a strong team dynamic. It is clear that Keenan’s unique coaching style had a lasting impact on his players, even years after their time together on the ice.
In conclusion, Brett Hull’s hilarious story about former Blues coach Mike Keenan’s emphasis on fitness not only provides a good laugh, but also showcases the strong bond between the two and the importance of physical fitness in the world of professional sports. Keenan’s unorthodox methods may have raised a few eyebrows, but there is no denying the success he had with the team. His dedication and passion for the game will always be remembered by his players and fans alike.
