Comrie Finds Family Support Key to Jets’ Victory Over Kings

Winnipeg Jets goaltender Eric Comrie credited his family for their support in helping him snap a losing streak, leading the Jets to a much-needed 5-1 victory against the Los Angeles Kings on March 1, 2024. Comrie, who had recently struggled with his performance, revealed that a heartfelt gesture from his wife, Haley Comrie, played a pivotal role in his mental recovery ahead of the game.

Following a series of disappointing outings, Comrie expressed his emotional state after the game. “After last game, I wasn’t in the best mental space that I’ve ever been in my life,” he shared. Haley’s thoughtful act involved placing pictures of their children in his car, reminding him of the joy of playing hockey. “It showed me why I play the game and why I love the game,” Comrie added, visibly moved as he recounted the moment.

The photos included images of their two-year-old daughter in the Jets locker room and their son, who turns one this spring, wearing goalie pads. “She goes, ‘This is why you play the game,’” Comrie recalled. The display was strategically placed so he could see them as he entered the arena, offering him a significant emotional boost.

Jets coach Scott Arniel expressed his admiration for Haley’s support. He acknowledged the emotional toll the game takes on players and their families. “They’ve been wearing this just as much as the players have,” Arniel said. He emphasized the importance of remembering the joy of playing the game, especially during challenging times.

Comrie’s recent performances had been under scrutiny, with the goaltender suffering through a stretch of four consecutive losses, during which he conceded a total of 18 goals. The pressure of being a backup to Connor Hellebuyck means extended periods between starts, making it harder to bounce back after poor outings.

Reflecting on his struggles, Comrie compared his situation to that of former NFL quarterback John Elway, citing how athletes often take losses home with them. “It’s hard because it’s a job that has so many ebbs and flows and pressure,” he explained. “My wife does an unbelievable job keeping me grounded.”

Family support proved essential for Comrie, who described the warmth of returning home to his children. “It’s hard to stay angry coming home to my daughter yelling, ‘Daddy, daddy, daddy, come give me a big hug and a big kiss,’” he said. This grounding experience allows him to refocus and strive to be a better parent and partner.

In the game against the Kings, Comrie delivered an impressive performance, stopping 23 of 24 shots directed at him. The supportive atmosphere at Canada Life Centre further fueled the Jets’ success, with fans chanting his name throughout the game. “I think they deserved it more than we deserved it,” Comrie remarked, acknowledging the unwavering support from fans during the team’s struggles.

The victory not only lifted Comrie’s spirits but also reinforced the team’s belief in returning to the fundamentals of the game. “We just had to get back to playing and having fun again and doing what we love to do,” he stated.

As the Jets look forward to their upcoming games, Comrie’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the emotional connections that drive athletes to succeed, both on and off the ice.