No One To Hug: The Linus Ullmark Story

This is a story of loss and gain. Of feeling safe and feeling loved. Hockey didn’t come easy to Linus Ullmark. He was never supposed to make it this far, but he did by turning tragedy into triumph.
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#NHL #Hockey #Bruins

[@sportsnet]

So much unbelievable love in this comments section. Ya love to see it. ❤️

[@jboysquemun9335]

This story is so great, Linus is such a huge personality for the goalie community and it's awesome to see him succeeding, no goalie deserves it more. 🙌

[@Alex-js5lg]

Let's try and remember this story next time we want to pile on a specific player for underperforming. You never know what you're adding to. That's not to say we can't/shouldn't criticize professional athletes, just remember that they're actual people with real life problems too.

[@JoyC.-mo8xg]

Very well said !! People get caught up in Losing on their betting / gambling ticket !! Not thinking that these men have a personal life outside of their professional job !! We all have problems!! Let's give a helping hand and lift them up , instead of always criticizing and running them down !!

[@Youngsta0]

This is with anyone in life, he's no different than the rest of us

[@Alex-js5lg]

@@Youngsta0 agreed, but a lot of people seem to turn their empathy off when it comes to celebrities, athletes, etc. But people in general would do well to remember that everyone has their battles.

[@JoyC.-mo8xg]

@@Alex-js5lg - Agreed ! At the end of the day , or night -- we are ALL HUMAN .

[@JZJ7777]

Exactly! That’s why I hate when people criticize players so harshly.

[@urracamb]

Linus is such a great guy, incredibly genuine and sweet. tysm for sharing this story!

[@sportsnet]

Absolute stud

[@Joeythecanadian]

@@sportsnetyes

[@differnet]

Alcoholism and drug abuse tear families apart, and sometimes echo down through the generations. I am so really touched by Ullmark 's openness around this subject. I'm so glad he's a Bruins.

[@thomasthomasthomas296]

I’ll speak on my end, my grandfather was an alcoholic, but I never met him he passed away many years before I was born, I see it in my dad, he refuses to drink, will only occasionally have 1 drink, which is fine, healthy even, but there’s definitely an averseness towards alcohol.

[@RoughRaiders13]

"There's no guilt feeling happy when you're going through grief" That's a very powerful statement, and one a lot of people should listen to.

[@RichBuonanno]

I was so sad to see him leave Buffalo, but I am so happy that it helped him on his journey. May his happiness continue to grow. Go Linus!

[@Youngsta0]

everything happens for a reason, one would say

[@cullensweeney5678]

God bless him and his family. Boston loves him immensely, I smiled this whole video.

[@TheRedleg69]

It sucked that he left Buffalo, but good to know that it helped him out in the long run

[@ItsSolarzzz]

I don’t think he did as bad in Buffalo as ppl say, he bailed the sabres out countless times. But he was a on a whole another level when we got to the bruins

[@Kalaaver]

Damn as a Pens fan, I love this guy. He's a great guy, had no idea about his dad. Glad he made it through that, couldn't be happier for the guy.

[@meatmanmagoo]

"Its okay to not be okay" its a common term but its super impactful if you truely belive in it.

[@EdwardKirkpatrick]

I recently got an autographed photo of Ullmark and an one of Swayman... so they will both always will be together on my wall. Would love to find one with the hug signed by the both of them.

[@RichardTavilla]

Very cool

[@MbisonBalrog]

Swayman should give Ullmark a hug.

[@ericcouture96]

Just did tonite after Ully beat Toronto.

[@brianschryer9452]

Linus was already my 7-year old son’s hero. This just makes me even happier that he is. What a role model and amazing person!

[@merdadrezai1195]

As a Leaf fan, I have to say; What a great goalie and an easily loveable, human being, his honesty with himself should be a life lesson. The brotherly love between Jeremy and Linus is so admirable. Good on you Linus.

[@generationxpvp]

What an intelligent interviewer. Well done. Bruins fan for life. Human fan forever

[@rmelin13231]

Absolutely tear up every time I see the Linus/Jeremy hug.

[@RyanVentura604]

Thank you for sharing your story, Linus! You're a great man. But as a Canucks fan, that goalie goal hurt me LOL.

[@Madisonv13]

Go Linus!!! So cool! So important for men like him to stand up and show that it’s ok to have feelings and to let people know them even if they aren’t always happy ones. Thank you for this truly amazing video and story it’s going to help a lot of people

[@PeetaGrifffin]

Not a fan of Bruins but Ullmark is wholesome and so brave for overcoming his traumas. We need more mental health conversations in sports.

[@grungurl602]

Love you Ully. Hope you stay in Boston with Jeremy for a long long long looong time. All the love from Brazil to you and your family ❤

[@robertonievecimamontana7065]

That Bruin keeper tandem is so much more than the sum of its parts 🏒🏒

[@mollywierman158]

He is such an incredible person. I really admire him (and Swayman!). I’ve struggled a lot with family issues and mental health stuff since I was young, and it really does mean a lot to know I’m not alone in that. There are amazing people like Ullmark who’ve experienced grief and loneliness and pain too. And what’s more? They’ve healed. They’ve gotten better. They’ve found love and happiness. So maybe that means I can get better too. :) Thank you, Ullmark, for sharing your story and giving me that bit of hope.

[@TJ-fg9lc]

I hope he wins a cup. Dont care where, just wanna see this guy win it all!

[@jesse33cdn]

I had a similar experience with my mother, i too felt relieved when she passed. SO I'M SENDING YOU HUGS BRO, FROM ONE GOALTENDER TO ANOTHER! ❤💋🇨🇦

[@mavenfrankeus7287]

I am so proud that Linus is from the same, small town as my father.

[@rftulie]

Just wow. 68-year-old Bruins fan since age 11 when my family moved to Boston, expatriate now living in the mountains of New Mexico, and this video brought tears to my eyes. The Sway/Linus hug now means a lot more to me. Go Bs!

[@roskypolkerkan8355]

As a Bostonian I hope you can take our cheers for you as a hug whenever you need it Linus. So happy you're with us!

[@Joeythecanadian]

I’m a leafs fan and I HATE the bruins but I think he is a great golie and a person and as a golie my self I respect him

[@TJ-fg9lc]

​@@Joeythecanadianunderrated comment!

[@FleuryKaprizovFan_]

@@Joeythecanadianrare reasonable leaf’s fan

[@rocky-hi7hc]

I went no contact with my alcoholic father in June of 2019. Hearing him say talk about no one to hug, especially during COVID, hits hard. I'm so happy he's thriving and healthy

[@JessieArmy]

Same here but in 2020.

[@lisar.4335]

I love his brutal honesty. He has compassion, but is truthful. I think many people will be able to relate to his story and this will help him connect to people, as well as connecting people with each other. I love learning about the people behind my favorite team!

[@ArtyI]

I'm so incredibly proud of Linus for being so open about this. Mental health, especially for men, is still seen as a taboo topic and it really shouldn't be. I totally understand that feeling of just waiting for the call, I felt that with my grandfather for 3 years. So happy that Linus was able to create a family both on and off the ice. Linus will go down in Boston history as one of the legendary goalies

[@AvsHockeyMan]

As an Avs fan, I can 100% appreciate this! Such a great story! I may not cheer for the Bruins but I always cheer for great people. That’s exactly what Linus is!

[@brusox20]

As a child of an alcoholic parent, this really hits home to me. I still to this day have mental health issues brought on from this. Its okay to not be okay. I love Linus Ullmark for being so open and honest

[@brianhuber6391]

As a kid from Buffalo and a huge Sabres fan how could you not love this dude

[@DropDMurphy]

These two bring such warmth to my heart. I smile ear to ear everytime I watch these to grown men celebrate each other..

[@mycatsloveeachother6648]

Im a Bruins fan but did not know this about him, and now the goalie hug makes so much sense. I love the goalie hug ..never gets old, but now im going to feel it in a totally different way!

[@dog_house875]

Leafs fan here. But I have the upmost respect for this man. Keep your head up dude. You’ve had such a good career keep going! Good luck with everything you have coming your way.

[@chrisbliss7]

As a Sabres fan I am so happy he's happy. Wish he never left but I'm glad he's in a better place now.

[@SlapShot999]

ullmark keep pushing for your dream don't give up

[@keithallison3756]

I'm a die hard Kings fan, But I wish you huge Hugs Linas and I am so happy for you, your family, and Bruins fans( I have always had Neely as my idol) much success. Just hope if we meet at the cup we get it it in 7. Great piece guys!! Well done

[@Cale_Makar]

i shed tears of joy and sadness just in a 12 minute video

[@EditLivy]

Wow! I had no clue that he had to face such difficulties. Makes the Goalie-Hug so much more special as it already was. So happy for Linus that he found love and joy and wish for him it will be endless. ❤

[@brianhildreth9099]

Class act. Top shelf goaltender and more importantly, a Bruin!! Go Bs!

[@JP-kq4jr]

I didn't think it was possible to love and respect my dude more than I already did but here we are. I'm not crying, you're crying!

[@rjhaney2614]

I thought this would be your typical fluff piece about a player but damn was I proven wrong. The emotion in this is so incredible!

[@hargoniyamaki5168]

Every hockey fan appreciates you sharing your story, Linus. Your remarkable rise to the NHL after so many challenges will inspire people in multiple disciplines. You are a treasure, Linus.

[@rileydrew3159]

As someone who grew up with an alcoholic father who has since passed from his addiction, hearing athletes talk about this makes me feel less alone. Thank you Linus for sharing 💛🐻

[@Gary_the_People]

I am a "Boomer" (62 Y/O) and all I can say after watching this is, what is this strange feeling I am experiencing? I have never, in my life, felt the need to give another man a hug like I do Linus. In a world that it seems so much easier to just give in to the crappy, it is very commendable/inspiring that he chose to own it, instead of letting it own him. Thank you, from a lifelong Bruins fan, for this great piece.

[@ericcouture96]

So fortunate to have him and sway as the goalies i get to watch all season. What an amazing duo...both as people and goalies.AMAZING

[@tonibackman4486]

En stark och känslosam historia, önskar dig allt gott Ullmark! //En finne och Västeråsare

[@NorthernBeard]

What a beautiful video! So incredibly happy for Linus and his journey.

[@avery_nhl]

i love ully. such an amazing guy. glad that he met sway as well. one of the few iconic nhl duos we never knew we needed.

[@quercingtime]

Didn't expect to find myself weeping this morning but wow what a story!

[@nathanfaas1293]

I’ve watched Linus from his first game in Rochester till now. I’m so proud of the goalie he is today. He’s always been an amazing person

[@paullentini4778]

Linus thank you for everything and I wish you the best of luck. I am from Boston and a goalie my self. That goal was incredible. Please keep winning and playing the same way we appreciate you

[@lukenaundorf7084]

I hate saying this, but it’s easy to just forget that these players are people too sometimes. And they have their own issues and challenges to deal with. I love seeing players open up like this!

[@MbisonBalrog]

NHL is really pushing for players get in touch with feelings and expressing it.

[@jfmahler]

I’d say that’s not a horrible thing.

[@Gerbera726]

At the end of the day we are only human and our mental health is the most priceless thing in this world. If we can help the next generation to be better than we were, why not.

[@joshbehehe]

Some people don’t have someone to talk to and that’s so important.

[@delilah148]

You say that like it’s a bad thing

[@GrindHouseBlues83]

Bless this man. He’s a credit to the game and humanity.

[@JZJ7777]

This was super emotional, hearing this backstory of Ully. I love this guy.

[@paolabelan8211]

Such an amazing guy and amazing goalie ❤❤

[@LucyBatman]

This is why the bruins are my second favorite team, so many great ppl

[@johnbuckle7828]

Not a Bruins fan but I’m definitely a Linus Ullmark fan now!!!!

[@FirePhoto881]

I can’t stop watching this beautifully produced and edited piece. I had no idea about Linus’s Dad, and the story behind the after game victory hugs. His words feel like my words. Only is was my mom. Jeremy and Linus’s love for each other is real and It’s ok to not be ok. Thank for sharing this story, and perfectly timed with the Bruins hockey is for everyone night. Mental health in sports needs this kind of attention and it’s so wonderful to see how Linus and Jeremy have grown as “family” on and off the ice. ❤️

[@crazeinthedark]

Amazing video, personally feel like the thumbnail should portray the dramatic and sad story here more so. The bright yellow and blocky text and him smiling doesn’t show that clearly.

[@user-qg9ij6tr9u]

What a beautiful piece. Great work Sportsnet - thanks for this.

[@EvanMcLaren]

Thanks for being so open, Linus. It helps others with similar family struggles and challenges to find their own peace and know that they're not alone.

[@AnxietyAdvertisement]

wow that first 25 seconds hits home, respect. mad love to everyone going through these struggles behind closed doors🤞

[@hockeyqueen]

Good on him for being so vulnerable and speaking up about this

[@northerngal]

Great interview. Thanks for shining a light on Linus Ullmark and his journey. He is setting a great path for himself, his family and young hockey players, particularly goalies, everywhere. Beautifully done.

[@AndreSantos-nd3im]

We love you, Linus! So sad that you had to go through that at a young age, but you battled through it and came out stronger!

[@welderteach]

Incredible story, incredible guy! A true legend and inspiration

[@Descan26]

Hopefully Linus and Jeremy stay together as a top duo for years to come

[@OhCanada-wk3kl]

Great and relatable personal interest story! Many times families and individuals suffer in silence almost shamed into thinking an alcoholic loved one is just their cross to bear; however, we often find out how widespread and impactful this disease can be on families. Talking through and sharing pain and frustrations is the bandaid that starts families on the road to healing.

[@mariefrench44]

That strength that comes from family is so powerful... Linus Ullmark

[@brickuz]

This is amazing in so many ways! Thank you for sharing and thank you for making the Bruins a better team 🖤💛 Much love from a fellow Swede 💙💛

[@joshgraveman2062]

My son is a goalie and absolutely loved this interview!

[@444dkm]

I think everyone commenting here is sending you a virtual hug, Linus. You never gave up. I don’t care who you play for, I wii be cheering for you every game I see you in the net. Thank you for being so honest and open about mental health. You are going to help so many other players. And likely some fans too.

[@brianb5397]

Incredible story. Love the storytelling.

[@masterchef9512]

this is the best story in then nhl, two of the greatest goalies of all time and some of the most impactful people on the world of hockey. Didnt think i would cry today but here i am.

[@Helvetism]

livet började tufft och det är aldrig lätt att förlora en förälder men nu har han har fler saker att krama; sin fru och & två små knyten... och jeremy swayman. =) stor respekt till linus. en otrolig målvakt och en underbar person.

[@KatzVonKlc]

I was laughing and crying watching this... He's so genuine and sweet.. he so amazing.. you can just feel that he is s great friend and a person...

[@foduscaralho]

Not expecting him to see this but from every Bruins fan to you, we love you Ully

[@wadeflaherty6239]

Man….I am an Islander fan for life but this stole my heart. ❤

[@soniaviel324]

Love this so much and i have so much respect for him as a goalie

[@daynasafranek7807]

I enjoyed watching this so much! What a great guy! 😊

[@peatmarshnotfound]

Thank you for this. My father died this year after a long and painful struggle. He wasn't a hugger, but I hugged him as he died. A friend told me there is an exchange that occurs. They take something when they leave, but they leave you with something bigger than you as well.

[@user-ew1rt3xl1p]

Sending a hug from Sweden ❤

[@LoveABun]

You can’t help but love him.

[@Latvialainen]

It's so important that people talk about their pain more. It should not be something shameful. Holding in your emotions slowly destroy your and your closest people's healths.

[@justbleedprod.9414]

We need more of this in the hockey world. Hockey players are human beings too.

[@chrisb7198]

I liked Linus before this but my respect for him grew a lot. I am happy he got the help he needed to move past the events in his life. Now he is free to build the kind of life he wants for himself. I want him to win many more games for the B's but he is already a winner in life. That is so much more than hockey.

[@Axeom]

Love and so fun to watch you play. Happy you came to Beantown kid.

[@MrVictorLind]

Beautiful piece on a great player and a superb player!!! Thanks for sharing! Du är GRYM Linus🙌🏼

[@TheEtienne14]

Beautiful and inspiring 🙌

[@evahanson7681]

Im over here crying like a baby. What an interview.

[@crowtubecrozier2857]

Love you! You have every right to feel sad. To feel???? Sad. Much love around you buddy. I am dreading the day i lose my Dad. He's 79 years old, he's my best friend ect... I'd give you a huge hug if I could to you. Your a true man, an exact replica of your Dad. Crying is okay, don't ever stop crying. Much love from Maine! The Croziers love you.

[@MTN6516]

This story has done the impossible It made me feel sympathy for Boston losing to Florida

[@Descan26]

This resonates with sooo many people.

[@immukohonen7871]

Love you Ullmark! Go Scandinavia!

[@bassmandan9484]

Panthers and Bobrovsky fan, but I can definitely respect Linus Ullmark. He truly built himself from the ground up and broke the cycle of alcoholism. He’ll be a great father for his children!

[@mlrh123]

I love this man sm 😭

[@THErealOGse]

God I'm crying. I lost my Dad too. He had given up drinking years before I was born but the damage ti his body was done. He succumbed to Esophageal Cancer with me and my Mom by his side. I don't think anyone understands how hard it is to go through losing your Dad unless they've gone through it.