🎙️Podcast Summary:

From sharpening skates to living the dream, Jorge Alves’ hockey story is the stuff feel-good movies are made of. The longtime Carolina Hurricanes equipment manager and former Marine got his unforgettable moment in the spotlight on New Year's Eve 2016. At 37 years old, Alves stepped onto NHL ice as an emergency goalie in the final seconds of a game—a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it debut that meant everything. “You never know what could happen,” Alves said, “and the fact something like that happened? It was amazing.” His journey took him from Massachusetts to the Marine Corps in North Carolina, through college hockey and minor leagues, to the NHL bench—and finally, the crease. Nearly a decade later, he still sharpens skates and spirits, inspiring both players and young fans with his love of the game and unwavering dedication. Alves is living proof that dreams, no matter how delayed, are still worth chasing.

🧊 Key Takeaways:

• Jorge Alves, 46, is the equipment manager for the Carolina Hurricanes, responsible for everything from skate maintenance to mask airbrushing. “The air-brushing is actually the easiest part,” he joked.
• Born in Massachusetts to Portuguese immigrant parents, Alves served in the U.S. Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune before attending NC State, where he played goalie and was named ACC Goalie of the Year.
• He played for 13 different minor league teams between 2004 and 2007, including the Charlotte Checkers.
• Despite hopes from broadcasters and fans, he never made it to the NHL—until New Year’s Eve 2016.
• Due to an injury to backup Eddie Läck, Alves was signed to a one-day emergency contract and suited up as backup. With just 7.6 seconds left in the game, coach Bill Peters sent him in, making him one of the oldest NHL debutants ever at 37.
• Though the Canes lost the game 3–1, it was a win for Alves: “I get a little emotional thinking about it… It was amazing.”
• Teammates and staff continue to praise Alves’ positivity. Jordan Staal said, “I don’t know if I’ve met a guy who’s in a better mood every day than Jorge.”
• Alves remains with the team to this day and is actively involved in coaching youth players, hoping to help the next generation chase their hockey dreams.
• Reflecting on that special night, Alves said, “The gratitude I have for the Carolina Hurricanes organization… was amazing.”

📝 Final Thought:

In a league known for fast pucks and high stakes, Alves’ story reminds us that sometimes the most memorable moments come when we least expect them. It’s a reminder to always stay game-ready—you never know when you’ll be called up.
Link to Article