Seattle Kraken player John Hayden recently encountered a bear while fishing in Alaska, alongside his sister and team mascot Buoy. The incident, which occurred near a riverbank, involved the bear briefly charging at Hayden and Buoy, but was defused when a guide instructed the bear to leave the area. Hayden’s sister described their initial fear during the encounter, but they ultimately felt safe and continued to enjoy their trip. Hayden caught a summer record sockeye salmon during this outing.
Shortly after the encounter, a video of the incident went viral, attracting media attention both locally and internationally, including mentions in the Daily Mail. Although Hayden is known for his reserved demeanor and has had a lengthy professional hockey career, the viral video has made him one of the most recognized players on the Kraken roster. He jokingly referred to the unusual circumstances, explaining that while other players are in the spotlight for significant sports achievements, he is mostly remembered for the bear encounter.
Despite his newfound fame as “Bear Man,” Hayden continues to focus on his hockey career as he enters the fourth season with the Kraken, stating he enjoys the unexpected spotlight as long as it remains a lighthearted topic.
- Why it matters:
- This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of outdoor activities and the importance of safety in wildlife encounters.
- It brings attention to athletes’ personal lives, influencing their public image and fan engagement.
- The latest:
- Hayden is preparing for his training camp as he aims to extend his NHL career while embracing his newfound recognition from the viral video.
Source: https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/upon-further-review-bear-man-hayden-grapples-with-viral-video-fame
Source: https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/upon-further-review-bear-man-hayden-grapples-with-viral-video-fame