Donald "The Enforcer" Brashear
Donald Brashear is a six-foot three-inch 240-pound professional hockey player, and is rather intimidating on or off the ice. He is considered the enforcer, plays left wing, and ranks fourth in NHL penalty minutes for the Washington Capitals. His career started in 1992 when he played for the Montreal Canadiens. He has also played for the Vancouver Canucks, the Philadelphia Flyers, and now the Washington Capitals. His most recent contract with Washington has warranted him over $1.2 million for the 2008-2009 season.
Brashear's parents divorced when he was quite young. After moving between parents, Brashear was eventually raised by foster parents. While living with them he learned hockey. His motivation to learn the skills needed for hockey came not only from his foster parents but also from his four brothers. He has used his body checking skills and skating abilities to propel himself into the lead of penalty minutes for both the team and league.
The Pelle Lindbergh Memorial trophy was awarded to Brashear during the 2002-2003 season while he was playing for the Flyers, for showing the most improvement in his hockey skills and play. He does have a well-rounded field of training not only in hockey, but also with boxing. Joe Frazier, a legendary boxer, played an important part of Brashear’s life by allowing the hockey player to train with him. Also, James "Hoss" Skelton, UFC Champion, has contributed to Bradshear's training. Another important aspect of Donald Brashear's professional life is his involvement as a NHL Diversity Task Force member.