Wendel Clark was the 14th captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs; he retired in 2000 after 15 seasons with the NHL. Currently, he is the Ambassador for the Leafs, and attends corporate and charity functions as a representative from the team. Clark’s most recent business venture is opening Wendel Clark’s Classic Grill and Sports Lounge in Vaughan. Today, this married father of three uses his famous “wrist shot” when barbecuing.
Q: What is your fondest memory from your family kitchen?
A: I grew up on a farm. As soon as I opened the front door I knew my mom was cooking. The aromas of meat, chicken, and potatoes filled the house. She prepared meals for five to 15 people. The kitchen was always a busy place.
Q: Who is your favourite cook?
A: It would have to be my mom. I would look in the refrigerator and see nothing. She saw more than I did and was able to create amazing meals.
Q: What is your cooking specialty?
A: I love to barbecue, whether it’s steak, salmon or chicken for the kids. Summer or winter, I’m outside barbecuing.
Q: Which kitchen gadget can’t you live without?
A: Tongs are essential for the barbecue.
Q: How did the first meal you prepared turn out?
A: I watched my mom growing up and picked up the basics. The most experimenting with cooking was done during my first couple of years with the NHL.
Q: What tradition from your background involving food do you partake in?
A: Our big-time get-together, so everybody can see friends and relatives is what my mom calls “Christmas Dinner in July.” In winter, hockey is the priority. During the summer is the only time my mom can get us all under one roof. She cooks a delicious meal.
