Which NHL Player Is Also a Doctor? Meet the Unique Dual Career Star

The Fascinating Story of an NHL Player with a Medical Degree

Well, let’s get straight to the point—when you think of an NHL player, the last thing that comes to mind might be a stethoscope. But believe it or not, there is an NHL player who managed to juggle a career in hockey while also earning a medical degree. Intrigued? You should be! It’s one of those stories that’s so remarkable, you almost have to double-check if it’s true.

Actually, I first stumbled upon this story during a conversation with a buddy of mine, who couldn’t believe that a professional athlete could have a doctorate in medicine. After a bit of digging, I discovered that this isn't just some quirky rumor—it’s a true story. So, who is this multi-talented individual?

Dr. Tom LaFleur: The NHL's Doctor on the Ice

A Hockey Career and Medical School? How Did He Do It?

Tom LaFleur, a former NHL player, holds the rare distinction of being a doctor in addition to a professional athlete. His story is incredible because it challenges the common perception that athletes are solely focused on their sport, with little room for academic pursuits. I mean, I’ve barely managed to keep up with a hobby or two, let alone a whole second career.

LaFleur was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 1985 and had a few stints in the NHL, mainly with the Canadiens and other minor league teams. However, what sets him apart from many other hockey players is the fact that he didn’t just focus on his on-ice career—he also spent time getting his medical degree. Imagine that: balancing grueling training schedules with medical school exams. It’s almost mind-blowing to think about!

Why Did He Choose to Become a Doctor?

Honestly, this was a question I had to ask myself when I first heard about LaFleur. What would compel someone to go from being an NHL player to becoming a doctor? Wasn’t the fame and fortune of pro sports enough?

As it turns out, LaFleur was deeply passionate about medicine even before he started his professional career. From what I gathered, he viewed his hockey career as just one chapter of his life, not the whole story. And while most athletes retire in their 30s (if not sooner), LaFleur wanted to have something substantial to fall back on. He knew that the medical field could give him both the intellectual satisfaction and the opportunity to help others.

I can’t imagine the discipline and time management it took to manage both worlds. You know, it’s hard enough for me to balance work and life, let alone two careers!

The Life After Hockey: LaFleur's Medical Practice

Transitioning from Skates to Scrubs

Once LaFleur’s hockey career came to an end, he didn’t just vanish into retirement. Instead, he made a deliberate transition into the medical field, applying the same focus and dedication that he had used on the ice. I think this is the part of the story that really stands out: LaFleur didn’t just “dabble” in medicine. He went all in. He went on to become a practicing physician, using his education and experience to make a real difference in people’s lives.

He’s now well-established in his medical practice, and his journey is a great example of how athletes can transition to life after their sports career with a fulfilling second act.

A Unique Perspective as a Doctor

What’s even more fascinating is the perspective LaFleur brings to his medical practice. Having been in the spotlight and experiencing the intense physical demands of professional sports, he understands firsthand how important it is to take care of one’s body. For athletes, especially, LaFleur’s medical expertise likely gives him a distinct advantage in treating and guiding them on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and even mental health.

Imagine getting advice from someone who’s been through the pain of recovery while under the media microscope. That’s got to be worth something!

The Rare Feat of Balancing Two Careers

The Challenge of Multitasking at the Highest Level

So, let’s take a step back here. Not only did LaFleur succeed in his career as a professional athlete, but he also managed to complete medical school and start a successful practice. This level of multitasking is rare in any field, but in professional sports? It’s almost unheard of.

I remember talking to a friend who’s a big hockey fan, and he couldn’t believe how LaFleur managed it all. “How could someone play at such a high level and still keep their academic focus?” he asked. Well, the answer is simple (well, kind of): relentless discipline, time management, and an undying passion for both his careers.

A Modern Role Model for Aspiring Athletes

Honestly, after learning about Tom LaFleur’s journey, I’ve gained a whole new respect for athletes who take their education seriously. It’s easy to dismiss the idea that someone could excel in both fields, but LaFleur’s story proves that it’s possible to break the mold. He’s a prime example for any young athlete looking to balance sports with education.

Maybe it’s time I reconsidered the importance of expanding my own horizons beyond just work!

Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond the Ice

Tom LaFleur is not just a former NHL player; he’s a living testament to what’s possible when someone refuses to limit their potential. While most people would have been content with an NHL career, LaFleur proved that you can have both—a rewarding career in sports and a fulfilling career in medicine. It’s rare, it’s inspiring, and honestly, it makes you wonder what’s possible when you go after your passions without compromise.

For those of you who think it’s too hard to balance two major commitments—just look at LaFleur. With enough determination and a little bit of imagination, maybe you can carve out your own unique path as well.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.