Imagine living the dream of countless young hockey enthusiasts at just 17 years old.
That's exactly what Robert (Bob) Smulders did when he began his professional hockey career in Europe. Skating for the Dutch team, The Tilburg Trappers, until 1973, Smulders' passion and skill on the ice were undeniable.
"I was drafted in ’74 by the Buffalo Sabres. At 20 years old, it was exciting," he recalls with a nostalgic smile.
Throughout his career, Smulders wore jerseys for several notable teams, including the Peterborough Petes, Cincinnati Swords, Hershey Bears, and Charlotte Checkers.
Reflecting on his journey, he shared, "I went back to The Hague when I was 30 years old and played one year there."
When asked about the differences between hockey during his era and the present day, Smulders noted, "The money and the players are much bigger. Guys like Sidney Crosby make as much today as our whole team made! I was paid $30-35,000 a year. Right now, with one year in the NHL, you can almost retire. My big thing was to save money after all; it was a good life, but you knew it was a short career, so you knew that someday you were going to have to go to work."
After hanging up his skates, Smulders transitioned into the corporate world, working at Northern Telecom in Milton, Ont., for nine years.
"I started as the shipper/receiver, then the coordinator of the packaging department, and eventually the manager of shipping and receiving," he recounts.
After Northern Telecom Smulders ventured into entrepreneurship, purchasing a bar/restaurant in Tavistock, Ont., named Smully’s.
The establishment was very successful under his ownership, and after five years, Smulders sold the business and made a pivotal move to Sarnia to live with and support his parents.
"I retired early and moved to Sarnia to be with my mom and dad," he explained. "Life in Sarnia is pretty good. People ask me why I moved here from Toronto. Well, I like it here."
Smulders eventually moved into an apartment after the loss of his parents, but he soon realized he didn't enjoy living alone. He has since found a welcoming community at Rosewood Village.
"It’s a really nice spot. The people and staff are all so nice, and there are lots of activities. Here they organize everything for you. I’ve got everything I need," he said with contentment.
Robert Smulders' story is a testament to the spirit of resilience and adaptability, showcasing a life well-lived both on and off the ice.
This story was made possible by our Community Leaders Program partner.
Thank you to Steeves and Rozema Group for helping to expand local news coverage in Lambton County. Learn more