Good on Goodman: 1000 Games for Blackhawks' Strength and Conditioning Coach

When a hockey player closes in on their 1000th game, we hear about it days, even weeks, in advance. There's a countdown. A celebration is planned, especially if it's at home. There's speculation about what past stars will be there, and a video tribute is made, usually consisting of goals, trophies, interviews from teammates, family, and friends. But every once in a while, you have someone who's been with the organization for just as many years as the «stars», and whose accomplishments can only be seen through the accomplishments of others, and they reach their own milestone moment.
Paul Goodman joined the Blackhawks Organization in 2008 from running the strength and conditioning department at the University of Vermont. Back then, the room given to him in The Edge's practice facility left a lot to be desired. Johnny's Ice House wasn't much better, but he worked with what he had, until they moved to Fifth Third Arena, which allows him to build his sessions specifically to what is needed that particular day, and gives him the ability to change it completely for the next.
In his tribute video, instead of seeing goals scored, or announcers calling/cheering his every move, you'd probably see shots of him studying, while he's pursuing a Ph.D. in sports science, or clips of him in meetings, or working with clients, as he also runs his own company, Goodman Elite Training. But mostly, you'd see him with his hockey players. His friends. In a lovely piece on him by Ben Pope of the CST, Goodman is said to use the word «camaraderie» often. Healthy relationships are a key part of building mental strength, as much as physical. Paul takes the time to learn the personalities of his players, and uses that to individualize his coaching sessions. When you think about all the time and effort (and kindness and attentiveness) that requires, it makes this milestone all the more special.
Paul's methods and work ethic are just a couple reasons why the 3 time Stanley Cup champion will have a home with the Hawks for as long as he wants it. Derek King praises, «The guys respect him. He doesn't have to drag guys up there to the workout facility. They want to go.» That's a mentality that's sure to continue, even with all the new blood filling the halls. Paul, himself, has not lost faith in his team, and has every intention of being there when they get back to their winning ways. Until then, we will celebrate Paul, as he reaches his 1000th game when Chicago plays Dallas, tomorrow.

Random Fun Fact: There was also a goalie named Paul Goodman who played for the Blackhawks for 3 seasons; 1937-38, and 1939-41.