Jarome Iginla

Web of my hero (I drew it myself)

Jarome was born July 1st, 1977 in Edmonton,Alberta. His mother's name was Susan born in Oregon and his fathers name was Elvis born in Nigeria. Jarome's parents divorced when he was only one. He was raised by his mother and grandmother in Edmonton. Jerome admired African American players in the NHL and his favorite player was goalie Grant Fuhr. In his first two years of organized hockey he played as a goalie before deciding to switch to right wing. At 15 years of age he played on the St.Albert Midgit Raiders leading the Alberta Midget Hockey League with 87 points in 1992-1993.

Portrait of iginla (I drew it and photoshopped it using http://www.picnik.com/)

Iginla's junior career started at the age of 16 with the Kamloops Blazers. In 1995, being the 11th draft pick overall, Iginla was selected to play with the Dallas Stars. A few months later, at 18 years of age, he was traded to the Calgary Flames and has played his entire career with the Calgary Flames. He is a 5 time NHL all star . At the start of the 2003-2004 season Iginla became the very second captain of African descent in the NHL. He has represented Canada numerous times, including the 2002 winter Olympics as he led them to their first gold medal in 50 years. He is also known for his polite nature and generosity, donating 2,000 dollars to charity for every goal he scores.

Iginla skating-FAST (http://www.nhlallstar2008.com/AllStarJaromeIginlaProfile.htm)

In 1996 Jarome signed a contract with the Calgary Flames. That year he became the first 18 year old to play on the Calgary Flames along with Dan Quinn who played for the Flames in 1983. Jarome scored his first NHL point assisting a Theoren Fleury goal. The next game he got his first goal. He kept playing for the Flames and received a spot on the NHL All-rookie team. He was the runner up for the Calder Memorial Trophy as rookie of the year. He led the rookies with 50 points. In his third season he led the Flames in goals with 28. Hoping to resolve contract issues he bought his own insurance so the team wouldn't be responsible if he suffered an injury. Iginla finished the next season leading the flames in points and goals again with 29 goals and 63 points. Today he is married with one daughter- his greatest achievement yet.

Jarome Iginla (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jarome_Iginla)

I chose Jarome Iginla as my hero because, despite a somewhat difficult childhood, he remained determined to be somebody. He never let anyone tell him he could not achieve his dreams and goals. Today, even with all of his fame and fortune he remains a humble and respectful person. He continues to give back to the community by donating to charities and helping with various community activities. He is generous and kind-hearted. He is a joy to watch on the ice, keeping every young boy's dream alive.