Imagine having to choose between your professional duties and witnessing your child achieve their dreams on the world's biggest stage. That's the emotional dilemma Hershey Bears assistant coach Brent Thompson faced—until his team stepped up with an extraordinary gesture.
In a heartwarming move, the Hershey Bears have granted the 55-year-old Thompson a temporary leave of absence to attend the Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. Why? To cheer on his son, Tage Thompson, a rising superstar competing for gold with Team USA. This decision not only highlights the organization’s commitment to family but also underscores the unique bond within the hockey community. But here's where it gets controversial: Should professional commitments ever take precedence over once-in-a-lifetime family moments? Let’s dive in.
During Thompson’s absence, Brooks Orpik, a former Washington Capitals defenseman and current member of their player development staff, will step behind the bench. This marks Orpik’s first stint as an assistant coach in the professional ranks, adding another layer of intrigue to the Bears’ upcoming games against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms this weekend. Orpik’s experience, including his tenure as an assistant coach for the Boston College Eagles from 2020-2023, should help smooth the transition.
Brent Thompson’s journey to Milan is more than just a trip—it’s a testament to the sacrifices and rewards of a life in hockey. In a recent interview with FOX 43’s Todd Sadowski, Thompson shared his mixed emotions: ‘I’d love to be there, but we have a commitment here to this team and family here. We’re in this hockey world, and we all understand our roles and our commitments.’ Yet, the excitement is palpable. Tage’s family, including Brent’s wife, sister, and sister-in-law, are already in Milan, sending updates and photos that paint a picture of pride and joy. ‘It’s pretty special,’ Thompson added, ‘and I do get a lot of updates… They look like they’re having a good time.’
And this is the part most people miss: Tage’s Olympic journey is not just about him—it’s a continuation of his father’s legacy. Before Tage became an NHL standout, Brent played six seasons as a defenseman for the Los Angeles Kings, Winnipeg Jets, and Phoenix Coyotes in the ’90s. His lone NHL goal, scored on November 6, 1993, against the Pittsburgh Penguins, was assisted by none other than Hockey Hall of Famers Luc Robitaille and Wayne Gretzky. Brent’s AHL career was equally impressive, including three seasons with the Hershey Bears, where he served as captain in 2002-03. Now, as Tage shines on the Olympic stage—scoring a goal in the semifinal win against Slovakia—the Thompson name is once again making hockey history.
As Team USA prepares to face Canada in Sunday’s Gold Medal Game, the question lingers: Can Tage bring home the gold his father never had the chance to pursue? And more importantly, does Brent’s temporary leave set a precedent for prioritizing family over professional obligations? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation worth having.
