National Hockey League “Tough Guy” Neil Sheehy has signed with Team USA for the 2013 International Tug of War, according to Pulling for Peace organizers.
“I could have pulled for Team Canada. But I wanted to be on the wining team,” said Sheehy, who was born in Fort Frances and has dual U.S. and Canadian citizenship.
Sheehy, a defenseman, grew up in International Falls and played nine seasons in the NHL. Sheehy successfully shadowed Wayne Gretzky when Calgary overcame Edmonton in the playoffs on the path to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1986, note Pulling for Peace organizers.
Pulling for Peace conducts the annual International Tug-of-War across the Rainy River, which marks the border between Canada and the United States, as part of International Peaceful Borders Day.
In proclaiming July 2 as International Peaceful Borders Day, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper noted it is symbolic of “the blessings of good friends and good neighbors across peaceful borders.”
The two countries share the longest undefended border in the world and have had peaceful relations for nearly 200 years.
International Falls Mayor Tim “Chopper” McBride said Sheehy’s participation in next year’s tug of war just about guarantees the USA a victory.
“Neil is a winner — we might as well inscribe the trophy, now,” said McBride. “Team Canada might as well sit this one out.”
Shawn Mason, International Falls director of economic and community development, said Robin Bjorkquist, Team USA celebrity talent scout, has several more prospects about ready to commit to participating.
“I think Robin has learned a thing or two from Neil who became an agent after he hung up his skates,” said Mason. “Neil knows how to close a deal and so does Robin.”
Mason noted that with more and more celebrities making the trip to International Falls for the International Tug of War, Pulling for Peace is adding a charity dinner in support of Backus the night before the pull.
The Pulling for Peace International Tug-of-War is scheduled for 5 p.m. on July 2. More information on the International Tug-of-War is available at www.pullingforpeace.com.
