Veteran Flames center lauded for on- and off-ice achievements
Mikael Backlund’s attitude about giving back to the community is possibly more impressive than his on-ice career with the Calgary Flames.
Backlund was honored for both aspects on Monday when he was awarded the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, presented “to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community.”
“I’ve always been inspired by people who help others that struggle,” Backlund said when he was named a finalist for the award that was handed out in Nashville. “I am aware that I have been given the opportunity to live a privileged life and know that a small gesture from me can mean the world to other people.”
Backlund’s efforts for charity include works for the ALS Society of Alberta in honor of his mother-in-law, who succumbed to the disease when his wife, Frida, was just 19 years old, as well as assistant general manager Chris Snow. Backlund and his wife have raised more than $400,000 for the nonprofit and have welcomed nearly 100 families affected by ALS to home games.
He is also an ambassador for both Kids Cancer Care and Special Olympics Calgary. He had a childhood friend diagnosed with cancer and another who was born with Down syndrome, and has invited an additional 500 guests to attend Flames games and meet with him afterward.
Most recently, Backlund and his wife partnered with Parachutes for Pets to create Lily’s Legacy, named after their dog who passed away in 2021. This first-of-its-kind program allows children in foster care to keep their pets while they are transitioning into care.
Backlund receives a $25,000 donation from the NHL Foundation to benefit a charity or charities of his choice.
“It was a little bit emotional and special,” Backlund told Sportsnet. “I don’t do it for the recognition, but to get recognized is always a good feeling.”
Frida Backlund also released a children's book, Our Guardian Angels, about coping with the loss of a loved one.
“I’m so proud of her releasing her book. It was a very special moment for her to do that in memory of her mom," Backlund siad of his better half. "She’s amazing.”
On the ice, Backlund collected a career-high 56 points and posted a team-best plus-24 rating. He also finished sixth in voting for the Selke Trophy as top defensive forward. Elias Lindholm was 10th
Backlund is the fourth Flames player lauded with the King Clancy Trophy, joining Lanny McDonald, 1987-88, Joe Nieuwendyk 1994-95 and Jarome Iginla 2003-04.