Alex Semin signs his jersey for William Shannon
Since his arrival in Washington, Alex Semin has earned a reputation for being extremely media shy. He rarely, if ever, opens up for the cameras and it’s safe to say his attitude has made him one of the more enigmatic characters on the DC sports scene.
Given his quiet, withdrawn nature, maybe that’s why Saturday night’s Fan Appreciation Night was so touching.
After a 5-4 win over Buffalo, each Capitals player gave their respective jersey to a lucky fan. Semin’s jersey was designated for young William Shannon, a five-year old boy who was diagnosed with leukemia.
Semin skated over with a beaming smile and proceeded to sign his jersey for Shannon. Afterwards, he picked him up for a picture, producing one of the more heartfelt moments I’ve seen covering sports. It lasted about all of 10 seconds, but it will resonate for years to come in my mind.
It’s not often we see the human side of Semin or any of the players for that matter, but on Saturday night we received a refreshing reassurance that athletes can indeed forge a bond with their fanbase. William Shannon needed a memorable evening more than anyone else among the sellout crowd at Verizon, and Alex Semin only made it more memorable with the kindness he displayed in his brief moments with the youngster.
Sports is a business for some. A pastime for others. Either way you look at them, no one can deny we need more moments like this one to make sports and life worth living.
Sweet story! And I was at the game to witness it. They have a picture of Sasha lifting the kid on the Capitals Outsider blog. And a more full description of William Shannon’s experiences (in general) on the RMNB site (where we learned it was already arranged that he’d get Semin’s jersey).
I was actually picked to receive a jersey as well and was on the ice when William received his. It is so nice to see the capitals giving back in such a unique way. My little cousin was granted a wish by the make a wish foundation, so when I see other children get their wish it just really touches me. William will never ever forget those few days. Guess Sasha isnt so bad ass after all
Truly a fantastic moment. Puts everything in perspective. Thanks for the comment Lauren!
Dear Fans,
I want to thank everyone who made my son’s wish come true! Thanks to Goat, The Horn Guy, and all of the fams who greeted William on the concourse. Thanks for telling us our story, John! We are praying for you!
Thanks, Caps! You are a class organization!
Alex Semin, you are a class act as well!!!!!!!
That picture with my boy says it all!!!
Don’t listen to the press. You know who you are!
Regards!
Devin Shannon
A.K.A. William’s Dad
dshannon@frontiernet.net
Thanks so much for stopping by Mr. Shannon. Our thoughts and prayers are with William!