Chicago Blackhawks Strength and Conditioning Coach and Western Springs resident, Paul Goodman, has chosen to spend his Stanley Cup day in the Chicago area community on Tuesday, July 23.
“My family and I wanted to provide as much exposure to the Stanley Cup and as many opportunities as possible for our community to share our special day with us,” says Goodman.
Goodman, with the Stanley Cup in tow, will kick off the day at a morning party aptly named “Cup and Coffee” at 5201 Woodland Ave., Western Springs, the home of family friends George and Beth Vlahos.
Promptly at 12 p.m. the Cup will make its first public appearance of the day on the stage of the McClure Junior High auditorium. Goodman’s son Grant will be a sixth grader at the school this fall. The event is free for all students, family and staff of District 101 up to the school auditorium maximum capacity of 700.
According to D101 Superintendent Dr. Brian Barnhart, “The event will begin with Mr. Goodman speaking to the group on the importance of strength and conditioning as it relates to children, adults and the Blackhawks. Following his remarks group photos will commence. Due to stringent time limits the Cup photos will take place starting at 12:30 p.m. and will end at 2:00 p.m. sharp. Based on capacity and the number of group photos, entry doesn’t guarantee a photo (provided free) by Van Gogh Photography, but we will do all that we can to maximize this opportunity for everyone.”
This is a free event and although not required, the school will welcome donations to benefit McClure’s athletic program.
Because the demand is expected to outnumber the capacity of 700 in the auditorium, Goodman plans to exit with the Cup via the south lawn of the school. If anyone should miss the opportunity of seeing it inside the school, it will be briefly viewed outside when the event has ended.
A few local businesses are in store for surprise visits. However, the biggest surprise is one for the community. Goodman will be displaying the cup publicly in the evening.
If anyone wants to catch a glimpse of the Stanley Cup and didn’t get to see it during the day, the Stanley Cup will be on display for viewing and photos at Capri Ristorante, 324 Burr Ridge Pkwy No. 1, in Burr Ridge at 7 p.m.
According to Goodman, “It’s probably the most iconic sports trophy in existence. It has a special meaning to Chicago because the Blackhawks fans are so connected to the team. We want as many people as possible to have the opportunity to see it and know what their support has meant to this town."