Dennis Hull
Chicago Blackhawks
Dennis Hull will readily admit to not being anything other than Bobby Hull's brother, as long as you add he's the younger brother. And, he's even been known to answer to someone asking for Brett Hull's uncle. A self-effacing brother and proud Uncle, Dennis himself, was known for his powerful shot on net. Bobby once said of his younger brother, "When Dennis is cranked up and lets it go, there is no goalie who can stop the shot except by luck and accident."
Dennis began his hockey career with the St. Catherine’s Blackhawks of the Junior 'A' League where he played from 1961-1965. In 1965, he joined the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League where he played until 1976. He then spent one year with the Detroit Red Wings before retiring. During his National Hockey League career, Dennis scored 303 goals and had 351 assists in regular games. In 95 playoff games he scored 33 goals and had the same number of assists. Six selections to the NHL All-Star team are a testament to his hockey skill. His biggest thrill in hockey was the first game he played against his idol, Gordie Howe, but the most significant time in his career came when he was selected to play for the memorable Team Canada of 1972.
After retiring from hockey, Dennis continued his education, graduating from Brock University in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Physical Education. During the summers of 1978 to 1982 he was the Director of Hockey, Sports Ridley. From 1980-1982, he taught history at Ridley College and also assumed responsibilities for their entire hockey program. From 1982 until 1993 Dennis was the Athletic Director at a university in Chicago. Also, during that period he spent a few years as the color commentator with the San Jose Sharks.
Today, Dennis combines his love for farming, raising Purebred Polled Herefords at his farm just east of Toronto, with his numerous speaking engagements. Gordie and Colleen Howe, "Mr. and Mrs. Hockey" quoted in Dennis's book The Third Best Hull (I would have been fourth but they wouldn't let my sister Maxine play): "Without a doubt, Dennis is one of the most talented speakers and comedians in all of sports. He rivals the likes of Bob Hope and Eddie Murphy with his wit and humor. He was a natural on the ice, and now he is a natural on the stage."
In 2005 Dennis Hull was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame as a member of Team Canada 1972. He also hosted the Winnipeg Comedy Festival that aired on CBC, as well as hosting the 2009 NHL All-Star Game.
