Manitoba

Teemu Selanne set for 'emotional' celebration at Jets-Ducks game

One of the greatest hockey players to lace up for the Winnipeg Jets is preparing to watch his No. 8 jersey raise to the rafters and celebrate his retirement at Sunday's game in Anaheim, Calif. between the Ducks and the Jets.

The former NHL superstar says he's enjoying retirement, but expects Sunday will be emotional

Emotional celebration at Jets-Ducks game expected for Teemu Selanne

10 years ago
Duration 3:53
One of the greatest hockey players to lace up for the Winnipeg Jets is preparing to watch his No. 8 jersey raise to the rafters and celebrate his retirement at Sunday's game in Anaheim, Calif. between the Ducks and the Jets.

One of the greatest hockey players to lace up for the Winnipeg Jets is preparing to watch his No. 8 jersey rise to the rafters and celebrate his retirement at Sunday's game in Anaheim, Calif. between the Ducks and the Jets.

Teemu Selanne, nicknamed the Finnish Flash, retired in May 2014 as an Anaheim Duck. The 45-year-old said he "distanced himself from ice hockey," by the end of his career.

The NHL star, who played for the Jets between 1992 and 1996, said since retiring he has been enjoying life.

"Everyday has been great," he said. 

"I don't really miss the game that much. I miss my teammates, and the life around the locker room. But the game itself, I think I played long enough of that."

On Sunday the years he played will be celebrated at the game, and Selanne is flying in 60 family members from Finland for the tribute.

"So it's going to be an emotional moment for sure. It's a big honour for me," Selanne said.  

"I really appreciate everything that has happened in my career, and seeing my No. 8 go up, it means a lot."