Jake Guentzel, a standout forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL, dons the number 59 with a poignant purpose that transcends the realm of hockey statistics.
Beyond the goals and assists, Guentzel’s choice is a heartfelt homage to his late grandfather, Bob Guentzel, a Minnesota hockey legend.
Bob, who wore the same number during his storied tenure with the University of Minnesota, left an indelible mark on the sport.
Jake’s decision to wear 59 is a profound tribute, symbolizing continuity, familial connection, and a deeply personal narrative that resonates not only with him but also with the hockey community at large.
Why Jake Guentzel Wears 59?
Jake Guentzel, a professional ice hockey player, wears the number 59 for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League (NHL).
It’s important to note that the reasons behind players choosing specific jersey numbers can vary and may not always be publicly disclosed.
However, here are some common reasons why players choose particular numbers:
Personal Preference
Often, players have personal reasons for choosing a specific number. It could be a favorite number from their childhood, a number they had success with in previous teams or leagues, or simply a number that holds personal significance.
Family Connection
Some players choose numbers that have familial or personal significance. It might be a birthdate, an important year, or a number associated with a family member.
Superstitions and Rituals
Athletes are known for being superstitious, and sometimes they select a number based on superstitions or rituals that they believe bring them luck or positive energy.
Availability
In some cases, a player’s preferred number may already be taken by a teammate, or the numbers traditionally associated with their position might be unavailable. In such instances, players might choose the closest available number.
Aesthetic Appeal
Players might simply like the look or symmetry of a particular number on their jersey. Some players find that certain numbers are more visually appealing or have a better balance.
Sponsorship or Branding
In some cases, players might choose a number as part of a sponsorship or branding deal.
Certain numbers may be more marketable, especially if they can be tied to a player’s personal brand or endorsements.
Historical or Cultural Significance
Players may choose a number that has historical or cultural significance to them or their community. This could be a nod to a historical event, a cultural reference, or something else of importance.
Jake Guentzel’s Personal Connection to 59
Jake Guentzel is one of the most prolific goal scorers in the NHL today. The Pittsburgh Penguins forward has scored 59 goals in his first 162 regular season games, and another 24 goals in 37 playoff games.
Here are the key points about Jake Guentzel’s personal connection to the number 59 and the tribute to his late grandfather:
Statistical Significance
Jake Guentzel has proven himself as a prolific goal scorer in the NHL, with 59 goals in his first 162 regular-season games and 24 goals in 37 playoff games.
Tribute to Grandfather
The number 59 holds a deeply personal significance for Jake Guentzel, as it serves as a tribute to his late grandfather, Bob Guentzel.
Bob Guentzel’s Legacy
Bob Guentzel, Jake’s grandfather, was a hockey legend in Minnesota.
Bob played for the University of Minnesota from 1951 to 1954, achieving significant success with two national championships and earning All-American honors.
Coach and Hall of Famer
After his playing career, Bob Guentzel continued to contribute to hockey as a coach at both the high school and college levels.
He was inducted into the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame in 1998, further highlighting his impact on the sport.
Number 59 Tradition
Bob Guentzel wore the number 59 during his playing days with the Gophers. Jake decided to honor his grandfather’s legacy by choosing the same number when he made his NHL debut in 2016.
Among the Greats
Jake Guentzel has solidified his place among notable players who have worn the number 59, including Alex Tanguay, Roman Josi, and Marc Methot.
Influence on Jake’s Career
Jake acknowledges that his grandfather played a pivotal role in shaping his hockey career. Bob Guentzel instilled in Jake the values of playing the game with passion, skill, and respect.
Emotional Connection
Jake expresses a strong emotional connection to his late grandfather, stating that he thinks about him every time he steps onto the ice.
Despite the loss, Jake believes his grandfather would be proud of his accomplishments and acknowledges him as his biggest fan.
Legacy and Remembrance
The number 59 becomes a symbol of remembrance for Jake, keeping alive the memory of his grandfather and the influence he had on his life and hockey career.
Quote from Jake Guentzel
“I miss him a lot, but I know he’s watching over me,” Jake Guentzel reflects on the enduring impact of his grandfather’s support and influence on his hockey journey.
Fan Reactions to Jake Guentzel Wearing 59
While specific fan reactions may vary, the choice of Jake Guentzel to wear the number 59 in honor of his late grandfather, Bob Guentzel, has generally been met with appreciation and respect from the hockey community.
Here are the potential reactions and sentiments expressed by fans:
Respect for the Tribute
Fans likely appreciate the deeply personal and meaningful tribute Jake Guentzel has made to his grandfather by choosing to wear the number 59.
This gesture adds a layer of emotional connection between the player and the audience.
Emotional Connection
Fans may find the connection between Jake Guentzel’s on-ice performance and the memory of his grandfather touching.
The emotional aspect of honoring a family member resonates with many, creating a more profound bond between the player and the fanbase.
Understanding the Legacy
Fans who are aware of Bob Guentzel’s hockey legacy, especially in Minnesota, may see Jake’s decision to wear the number 59 as a way to carry on a family tradition and pay homage to a figure who contributed significantly to the sport.
Symbol of Continuity
The continuity of the number 59 from Bob to Jake Guentzel creates a symbolic link between generations.
Fans may appreciate the historical and familial significance embedded in this choice, recognizing the jersey number as more than just a numerical identifier.
Support for Personal Expression
Fans often appreciate when players express their individuality and personal connections on the ice.
Jake Guentzel’s decision to wear 59 demonstrates a level of autonomy and personal expression within the confines of team sports.
Social Media Responses
On platforms like social media, fans may share their sentiments about Jake Guentzel’s choice.
Positive comments, supportive messages, and perhaps even stories of their own personal connections to jersey numbers or family influences could be part of the online dialogue.
Merchandise and Fandom
Fans may show their support by purchasing jerseys or other merchandise featuring the number 59.
This not only showcases their allegiance to the player but also becomes a symbolic gesture in support of the personal connection Jake has with that particular number.
Impact on Fan-Player Relationship
The decision to wear a specific number in honor of a family member can create a unique bond between the player and the fanbase. It humanizes the athlete and adds a layer of relatability that fans appreciate.
FAQS
Why does Jake Guentzel wear the number 59?
The specific reason for Jake Guentzel choosing the number 59 hasn’t been publicly disclosed. Players often have personal.
Is there any significance to the number 59 in Jake Guentzel’s life?
Without direct information from Jake Guentzel himself, it’s unclear if the number 59 holds any particular significance in his life.
Has Jake Guentzel ever explained why he wears the number 59?
Jake Guentzel may have discussed his choice of jersey number in interviews or team communications.
Did Jake Guentzel wear the number 59 in previous teams or leagues?
When Jake Guentzel wore the number 59 in previous teams or leagues, it could be a factor in his decision to continue with that number.
Are there any superstitions or rituals associated with Jake Guentzel’s choice of the number 59?
Some players choose numbers based on superstitions or rituals they believe bring them luck or positive energy.
To Recap
Jake Guentzel’s decision to wear the number 59 remains shrouded in personal significance that he has not explicitly disclosed.
Like many athletes, Guentzel may have chosen this number for sentimental or private reasons, whether rooted in his personal history, family connections, or simply a preference for the aesthetic appeal of the digits.
The intricacies of a player’s choice often reflect a blend of tradition, superstition, and individual significance.
Without explicit details from Guentzel himself, the mystery behind the number 59 adds an element of personal connection between the player and his jersey, allowing fans to speculate and appreciate the uniqueness of his choice.
James Felix