He Left Home At 14 After Losing His dad... Now He's Chasing The NHL Dream

🎙️ AFTR Podcast | Hubert Clarke | From Norway House Cree Nation to Chasing the NHL Dream What does it take to leave everything you've ever known at just 14 years old to chase a dream? In this powerful episode of AFTR – Away From The Rink, we sit down with Hubert Clarke, an 18-year-old hockey player from Norway House Cree Nation in Northern Manitoba whose story is built on resilience, sacrifice, and purpose. Hubert opens up about growing up on the reserve, where hockey became more than just a game—it became hope. Inspired by his older sisters and driven by a dream of one day playing in the NHL, he dedicated himself to the sport from an early age. At just 14 years old, Hubert's life changed forever when he lost his father, Vernon, to alcohol addiction. Only one week later, he made the heartbreaking decision to leave home and move to Winnipeg to continue pursuing his hockey dream. That dream continues today. Hubert also shares what it was really like playing junior hockey in the NAHL. While many people only see the highlights, he talks honestly about the challenges he faced off the ice, difficult relationships with teammates, and how perseverance helped him keep moving forward instead of giving up. But this conversation goes far beyond hockey. Hubert shares one of the most meaningful moments of his life—a graduating student publicly thanked him during a graduation speech, saying Hubert had "saved his life." It wasn't because of goals, wins, or championships. It was because Hubert consistently took the time to acknowledge people, say hello, and show kindness without ever realizing the impact he was making. It's a reminder that people are always watching. The greatest legacy an athlete can leave isn't found on a scoresheet—it's in the lives they impact. In this episode we discuss: 🏒 Growing up in Norway House Cree Nation 💚 Losing his father to alcohol addiction 💪 Leaving home at 14 to chase the NHL dream 🇺🇸 The reality of junior hockey in the NAHL 🌎 Representing Indigenous youth and inspiring the next generation 🤝 Leadership, kindness, and why character matters more than talent ❤️ The power of one conversation and one act of kindness If this episode resonates with you, please LIKE, COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE. Your support helps us continue creating meaningful conversations that remind people they are never alone. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This episode includes discussions about grief, alcohol addiction, mental health, and personal adversity. Some viewers or listeners may find these topics emotional. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, mental health professional, or a local crisis resource. Asking for help is a sign of strength. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. 📱 Follow AFTR – Away From The Rink for more conversations that go beyond the game. Because life is bigger than hockey. 🖤🏒