MORRISVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — Former Carolina Hurricanes star goalie Cam Ward is not about to go quietly into retirement.
Ward is entrenched in the community where he spent 12 years of his professional career. Giving back is important to him, so when he had the chance to lend a hand at the Hurricanes’ prospects camp, he jumped at the opportunity.
“You know, I’ve made it known that I’m available and want to be another resource to help the kids and be a part of their development,” said Ward. “I like to think I’ve got some experience and I’d like to share that with the kids.”
Twenty-five years ago, Ward was right where these Canes prospects are today. Carolina’s all-time leader in wins and shutouts, Ward has a wealth of knowledge to share when it comes to hockey’s most important position. There is much more to becoming a successful goalie than just having a certain skillset.
“Oh, I think it’s more the mental side I think about,” Ward said. “These guys are so good at a young age and have a ton of skill. It’s more what to expect mentally to being able to transition to being a pro.”
Ward would like nothing better than to see his work pay off in getting these young goalies to hockey’s highest level, a place still dear to his heart.
“I mean, this is what I miss the most — being around the guys, being around the locker room and having that comradery,” said Ward. “It’s hard to believe it’s already been six years since I retired in 2019, and I’m just happy to be in the mix and involved with some of these guys and watch them develop.”
Ward had the coaching he needed to achieve the success he did, and to him, paying it back seems to be the right thing to do.