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Macklin Celebrini Reveals How Soccer Sharpened His NHL Game-and How Hockey Could Borrow From World Cup Energy

2026-07-13 · Macklin Celebrini · Player Focus

Macklin Celebrini Reveals How Soccer Sharpened His NHL Game-and How Hockey Could Borrow From World C

Macklin Celebrini, the 20-year-old NHL phenom who just posted 115 points for the San Jose Sharks, credits soccer for his ice-time agility-and thinks hockey needs to steal soccer’s fan energy. The Canada World Cup captain hosted a Toronto soccer camp this summer, blending his dual-sport roots with a bold idea: hockey could learn from the World Cup’s global passion.

Why does Celebrini think soccer made him a better hockey player?

Celebrini’s footwork and spatial awareness on the ice trace back to childhood soccer drills. “Mostly, it’s the vision,” he said. “Soccer is chess-you think three steps ahead.” His father, Rick Celebrini, played professionally for Canada, and his mother, Robyn, competed at the collegiate level. The family’s soccer DNA runs deep, with brothers Aiden, RJ, and Charlie all drawn to the sport.

How is Canada’s World Cup hosting affecting Celebrini?

The 2026 tournament has been a revelation. “It’s amazing,” Celebrini said. “I was at BC Place for New Zealand vs. Egypt-unbelievable energy.” He’s soaked in the atmosphere, from Vancouver’s packed stadiums to the global fan chants. “European soccer fans bring that fire,” he noted. “I wouldn’t hate to see hockey adopt some of it.”

What’s next for Celebrini off the ice?

Beyond hockey, Celebrini’s soccer camp-partnered with Airbnb and Glen Shields Juventus Academy-showed his commitment to growing the game. “Sports keep you healthy,” he said. “Even if you don’t compete professionally, it’s about enjoying it.” With Canada’s World Cup run heating up, his dual-sport perspective could offer fresh insights for Team Canada’s hockey program.

Could hockey’s atmosphere change because of soccer’s influence?

Celebrini’s not just dreaming. He’s seen how fan chants and stadium noise elevate soccer’s intensity. “The atmosphere makes the game that much more fun,” he said. If hockey could channel even a fraction of that energy, the NHL might find a new way to electrify its crowds-starting with the 2026 Winter Olympics and beyond.

More Macklin Celebrini news →