Ryan Walter is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 15 seasons. He was born on April 23, 1958, in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada. Walter began his hockey career in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Seattle Breakers in 1975. He played for the team for two seasons before being drafted by the Washington Capitals in the first round of the 1978 NHL Entry Draft.
Walter made his NHL debut with the Capitals in the 1978-79 season and quickly established himself as a reliable forward. He was known for his physical play and leadership qualities, and he was named an alternate captain of the team in his second season. Walter played for the Capitals for eight seasons, scoring 149 goals and 382 points in 552 games.
In 1986, Walter was traded to the Montreal Canadiens, where he played for three seasons. He was a key player on the Canadiens' Stanley Cup-winning team in 1986, scoring 7 goals and 16 points in 20 playoff games. Walter was known for his defensive play and his ability to win faceoffs, and he was often used in a checking role.
After his stint with the Canadiens, Walter played for the Vancouver Canucks for two seasons before retiring in 1993. He finished his NHL career with 264 goals and 610 points in 1,003 games. Walter was also a member of Team Canada at the 1981 Canada Cup, where he helped the team win the tournament.
After retiring from playing, Walter became a coach and executive in the NHL. He was an assistant coach with the Canucks from 1997 to 1998 and the Anaheim Ducks from 1998 to 2000. He then became the head coach of the WHL's Tri-City Americans from 2000 to 2004. Walter also served as the president of the Abbotsford Heat, the AHL affiliate of the Calgary Flames, from 2009 to 2011.
In addition to his hockey career, Walter is also a motivational speaker and author. He has written several books, including "The Captains' Leadership Manual" and "Hockey Parent Survival Guide." Walter is known for his positive attitude and his commitment to helping others achieve their goals.
Overall, Ryan Walter had a successful hockey career as a player, coach, and executive. He was a reliable and hardworking player who was respected by his teammates and opponents alike. Walter's leadership qualities and dedication to the game have made him a valuable asset to the hockey community.
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