Player Profile: Wade Elliott, Clearwater’s steady defenceman on a mission
When you think of dependable defencemen on the Clearwater Hosers, Wade Elliott (wearing #10) quickly comes to mind. Although he’s only been with the team for two years, Elliott has already earned a reputation for his toughness on the blue line and his down-to-earth approach to the game.
From Clearwater‘s rink: Born and raised in Clearwater, Elliott first laced up his skates in 1970. Inspired by watching Hockey Night in Canada as a kid, he grew to admire Guy Lafleur’s flair and passion on the ice. But it wasn’t just legends of the NHL that fuelled Elliott’s hockey dreams: coaching his own kids is one of his proudest accomplishments, marking him as a devoted family man as well as a loyal teammate.
Defence first, fun always: Elliott’s strategy during warm-ups was unique back in the day: shoot the puck at the goalie’s head and warn him “top shelf!” (he adds that his warm-up goalie was his brother). While it may sound a bit unorthodox, Elliott has a simple guideline during games: “Try to stay standing.” His playful spirit is reflected in his choice of pump-up song: “Good Old Hockey Game.”
Off the Ice: When he’s not locking down the defensive zone, Elliott jokes that he’s “laying around getting old.” But don’t let him fool you: he’s an active guy who loves a classic hamburger and calls “meat and potatoes” his favourite fuel. He’s also got a sense of humour about his teammates, singling out Russ for rocking “Santa underwear.”
Rapid Fire
• NHL Team: Montreal Canadiens
• Favourite Movie: Saving Private Ryan
• TV Go-To: Yellowstone
• Dream Adventure: A trip across Canada
• Pineapple on Pizza? “Yes!”
When asked about his “best chirp” on the ice, he coyly responds, “That one better stay unwritten.” It seems Elliott knows the value of a well-timed quip, but he also knows how to keep it under wraps.
Why He Suits Up: “Getting out and chatting with the guys” is what Elliott loves most about playing for the Clearwater Hosers. He sums up the team as “over the hill,” but in a fun, self-deprecating way that speaks to the camaraderie in the locker room. When asked which teammate would last longest on a deserted island, he picks Fred: “Don’t look like he eats.”
Final Word: Despite joking about his age and “trying to stay standing,” Wade Elliott’s passion for hockey is clear. His current mantra — "Just one more chance” — captures both his competitive spirit and his enthusiasm for the game. When it comes to fans, he has only one request: “Show up.”
Come watch Wade Elliott and the Clearwater Hosers in action, and see firsthand how a steady defenceman with a big heart can make all the difference on the ice! The Clearwater Hosers typically play midday on Mondays and Fridays. Contact the Sportsplex (250-674-2143) or Randy (250-674-2784) for game times.
In 2025, the Clearwater Hosers are partially sponsored by Wadlegger Logging, and the team sends out their thanks for the support.
Written by: Randy Hedlund / member of the Clearwater Hosers Senior Hockey Club. (CHSHC)
