While some perceive playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs as overwhelmingly stressful, Max Domi takes a different view.
The Leafs forward stated that the only experience surpassing playing for the team is winning a Stanley Cup with them, calling it “really that simple.”
Despite the 2024-25 season not concluding as hoped by Domi, the team, and the fans, he remains confident the group will be prepared for the next season.
Domi described the team as “a hungry group,” with everyone believing they “can get the job done,” and that “anything short of that is not going to cut it.” He added, “I absolutely love playing here. I love playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs.”
Growing up as the son of former Maple Leafs enforcer Tie Domi, Max has consistently dealt with pressure throughout his career, viewing it as a key part of what makes it worthwhile.
Domi characterized pressure as “a huge privilege,” something he dreamed of his whole life. He admitted it`s “not easy,” but stated, “nothing`s easy, and hard things are what make it fun.”
This perspective on facing challenges extends to Domi`s life away from the rink. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 12, he has openly shared his experiences managing the condition for 18 years and how it influences his regimen as a professional hockey player.
Domi highlighted the unseen work involved, explaining he typically starts his game preparation 24 hours beforehand, focusing on maintaining glucose levels within range, eating correctly, staying hydrated, and monitoring glucose trends.
Off the ice, one of Domi`s key priorities is supporting others living with type 1 diabetes.
Domi explained that his involvement means “showing a lot of support for everyone living with our condition of type 1 diabetes.”
He added that this work has “created this community in my life” which serves as a constant motivation. He feels he`s “playing for them,” aiming to demonstrate to “all the kids out there, and even adults,” that they “can still go out and live your best life” regardless of having the disease and pursuing their dreams.
Neville Woodall