The Engleson Files

For my birthday, my parents bought me a ticket to the BC Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, which is held every year at the Lakeside Resort here in Penticton. This year’s inductees were: Larry Ashley, Bernie Pascal, Doug Bodger, Ernie “Punch” McLean and Tom Renny. Other notables who attended were: Stan Smyl, Barry Beck, Steve Tambellini, Cassie Campbell, and, Brian Burke. Now, I was hoping to maybe schmooze up next to Mr. Burke at some point to get some hockey tidbits, but that did not happen. But, I did come out of the night with a bit of a Brian Burke story - kind of: So, it just so happens that I stumbled into the Men’s washroom at the same time as he did, and awkwardly, I begin some loose chatter with him there. (Yes, I know, probably not the best venue, but it was my only chance so I had to seize it). I ask, “So what’s your salary at right now with the Duck’s,” and his very quick response was, “None of your damn business!” Dismayed, I attempt to clarify my gaff, but then I see him laughing while washing his hands at the sink; he then very nicely goes into some detail that he has spent $41 million. We meet again right after at the bar (he’s a rum and coke man, too!) and he detailed a little how the Pronger deal affected his cap, and then he was gone. Brian Burke 1, Engleson 0. Bastard!