Dave Christian, renowned National Hockey League forward was born in Warroad, Minnesota May 13, 1959. He was born into a hockey dynasty. His Uncle Gordon had played in the silver medal winning Olympic Games of 1956. His father Bill and Uncle Roger played for the US Olympic team that won a gold medal in 1960 and both of whom went on to compete in the 1964 Olympics. They, along with another brother, founded the Christian Brothers hockey stick company. His hometown of Warroad calls itself Hockeytown, USA. Dave grew up playing football, baseball, track and hockey in which he was named an All-State player. His natural instinct for the game coupled with his puck handling skill and natural skating ability would give him his greatest success.
After high school he played for the University of North Dakota and during this time was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets. Before he started his NFL career he trained with the US National team in preparation for the Olympics. His 1980 Appearance for the Miracle on Ice team won them a gold medal against the Russians. He had 8 assists in 7 tournaments. Upon his return from the Olympics he started his NHL career within 1 week. His first goal was scored in his first game in the first seven seconds of play.
That distinction is a record that still stands today. Besides the Jets, he also played for the Capitals, Chicago, St. Louis and the Bruins with whom he advanced to the Stanley Cup finals.
During his more than 1000 game regular season career he scored 340 goals and 433 assists. He continued to play international games as his schedule allowed being in 2 world championships and 3 Canada Cups. After his NHL career he became coach and manager for US League Bears from 1997 to 2000 seasons.
