From the icy surroundings of Cranbrook, British Columbia grew a young hockey star. Steve Yzerman grew up in the small hamlet of Nepean, Ontario, where he polished his hockey abilities. As a rising star, he captivated onlookers with his abilities, gaining the attention of scouts from the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League. With determination and skill……………would you want to know more about this hockey legend? Get to learn more about his biography, net worth, and awards.
Table of Contents
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephen Gregory Yzerman |
| Nickname | Stevie Y, The Captain, Stevie Wonder |
| Birthdate | May 9, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Weight | 185 lb (84 kg; 13 st 3 lb) |
| Position | Centre |
| Shoots | Right |
| NHL Draft | 4th overall, 1983 (Detroit Red Wings) |
| Playing Career | 1983–2006 |
| Teams Played | Detroit Red Wings |
| Stanley Cups (Player) | 3 (1997, 1998, 2002) |
| Executive Positions | – Vice-President & Alternate Governor, Detroit Red Wings – General Manager, Tampa Bay Lightning – General Manager & Executive Vice President, Detroit Red Wings |
| Olympics | Gold Medal (2002, Salt Lake City) |
| Awards & Achiev | – Lester B. Pearson Award (1988-89) – Conn Smythe Trophy (1997-98) – Selke Trophy (2000) – Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (2003) – Inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame (2009) – NHL General Manager of the Year Award (2015) |
| Total Career Earnings | $68,857,448 |
Who is Steve Yzerman?
Steve Yzerman, often nicknamed “Stevie Y” or “The Captain,” is a hockey legend from Canada. Born on May 9, 1965, in Cranbrook, British Columbia, he grew up loving the game. Even as a kid, his talent on the ice was evident. He played in tournaments and joined local teams, like the Nepean Raiders Junior A hockey team.
Steve Yzerman was born in Cranbrook, British Columbia, and during his youth, he participated in the 1977 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament with a minor ice hockey team from Nepean, Ontario. He attended Bell High School and competed for his local Nepean Raiders Junior A hockey team. Following a season with the Raiders, he was drafted by the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and played as a centre for them from 1981 to 1983.
After catching the eye of scouts, Yzerman’s career took off when he was drafted by the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). From 1981 to 1983, he dazzled fans as the centre for the Petes.
But it wasn’t just about hockey for Yzerman. He balanced his passion for the game with his studies at Bell High School. Despite the demands of school and sports, he excelled both on and off the ice.
The Detroit Red Wings selected Yzerman fourth overall in 1983, making his NHL aspirations come true. This was the start of an illustrious 22-season career with the Red Wing. Yzerman’s journey to greatness didn’t stop there. His talent earned him a spot in the NHL, where he would spend his entire 22-season career with the Detroit Red Wings. As captain of the Red Wings, he became a Detroit sports icon, beloved by fans for his dedication and determination.
Perhaps most memorably, at the age of 21, Yzerman was named captain of the Red Wings in 1986, a position he took on with grace and dedication. He would go on to remain as captain for the following two decades, sealing his place as the most tenured captain in North American major league sports history. Under his leadership, the Red Wings achieved remarkable success, winning three Stanley Cups in 1997, 1998, and 2002.
In his career, Yzerman racked up numerous awards and honors, including three Stanley Cup championships with the Red Wings. He was known not only for his scoring prowess but also for his defensive skills, earning him recognition as one of the best all-around players in the game.
Yzerman represented Canada on the international stage, earning numerous accolades and championships as a member of Canada’s national hockey team.
Even after retiring as a player, Yzerman’s love for hockey never waned. He transitioned into a successful managerial career, serving as general manager for both the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Detroit Red Wings.
Off the ice, Yzerman is a family man, with a wife and three daughters. He’s also deeply involved in his community, giving back through various charitable endeavors.
What is Steve Yzerman’s age, height, and weight?
Steve Yzerman was born on May 9, 1965, making him 59 years old as of May 2024. He stands at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall and weighs 185 pounds (84 kg; 13 st 3 lb).
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Age | 59 years |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in |
| Weight | 185 lb |
What is Steve Yzerman’s Nationality and Ethnicity?
Steve Yzerman is Canadian by nationality. His ethnicity is European, namely Caucasian.
What is Steve Yzerman’s profession?
Steve Yzerman has had a diverse professional career in ice hockey. Yzerman rose to prominence as a player, becoming a highly skilled and beloved center for the Detroit Red Wings, where he spent his entire 22-season NHL career. He is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, having won countless awards and titles.
Following his retirement as a player in 2006, Yzerman easily switched into management, first as executive vice president and then as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings. In this role, he helped shape the team’s roster and strategic direction, employing his extensive knowledge of the game and great eye for talent to steer the organization to continued success.
When Yzerman became general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2010, his influence grew beyond the Red Wings franchise. During his time with the Lightning, he displayed his managerial abilities by constructing a formidable squad and instituting a winning culture that catapulted the team to new heights of success, concluding in a Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 2015.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Yzerman’s enthusiasm for the game and dedication to perfection were demonstrated by his engagement with Canada’s national hockey team. As executive director of Team Canada, he was instrumental in creating championship-winning teams for the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics, guiding the team to back-to-back gold medal victories and consolidating his reputation as a recognized figure in international hockey.
Whether as a player, executive, or sports ambassador, his contributions to the world of hockey have left an everlasting impression, reaffirming his place among the game’s giants.
| Team | Role | Years | Key Events and Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Red Wings | Player | 1983–2006 | – Named captain at age 21, serving for over two decades<br>- Three-time Stanley Cup champion (1997, 1998, 2002)<br>- Sixth all-time leading scorer in NHL history upon retirement<br>- Inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame (2009) |
| Detroit Red Wings | Executive | 2006–2010 | – Vice President and Alternate Governor (2006–2010)<br>- Fourth Stanley Cup championship as an executive (2007–08) |
| Tampa Bay Lightning | General Manager | 2010–2018 | – Nominated for NHL General Manager of the Year Award (2011)<br>- Led team to Stanley Cup Finals (2015)<br>- Franchise record for wins and points in regular season (2014–15) |
| Tampa Bay Lightning | Senior Advisor | 2018 | – Transitioned to senior advisor role (2018) |
| Detroit Red Wings | General Manager | 2019–present | – Rejoined as general manager (2019) |
| Team Canada | Executive Director | 2007–2014 | – Gold medal at 2010 Winter Olympics<br>- Gold medal at 2014 Winter Olympics |
| Team Canada | General Manager | 2007 IIHF World Championship, 2010 Winter Olympics, 2014 Winter Olympics | – Gold medal at 2007 IIHF World Championship |
What is Steve Yzerman’s current world ranking?
Steve Yzerman is widely regarded as one of the greatest ice hockey players of all time. He has been consistently recognized for his contributions to the sport, including being named one of the “100 Greatest NHL Players” in history by the NHL in 2017. Yzerman is eighth on the NHL’s all-time scoring list with 1,755 points. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009.
Who are Steve Yzerman’s Parents?
Steve Yzerman’s parents are Jean and Ronald Yzerman.
Does Steve Yzerman have siblings?
Yes, Steve Yzerman has siblings. He has two brothers, named Ronnie and Gary, and a sister named Cindi.
Who is Steve Yzerman married to?
Steve Yzerman is married to Lisa Brennan. They have been married for several years and have three daughters together. Lisa Brennan has been a supportive partner throughout Yzerman’s career, and the couple resides in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
Does Steve Yzerman have children?
Yes, Steve Yzerman and his wife Lisa Brennan have three daughters together.
What is Steve Yzerman’s Net Worth?
Steve Yzerman is estimated to have a net worth of $60 million and a career earnings of US $68,857,448 (USÂ $130,199,775 in today’s dollars).
How much does Steve Yzerman make annually?
For more details, refer to the table below:
| Season | Earnings (US$) | Earnings (Today’s US$) | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1983-84 | $110,000 | $336,516 | – |
| 1984-85 | $85,000 | $249,321 | – |
| 1985-86 | $428,571 | $1,213,959 | – |
| 1986-87 | $428,571 | $1,191,366 | – |
| 1987-88 | $478,571 | $1,283,406 | – |
| 1988-89 | $428,571 | $1,104,224 | – |
| 1989-90 | $1,800,000 | $4,424,135 | 2 |
| 1990-91 | $1,800,000 | $4,197,612 | 4 |
| 1991-92 | $1,800,000 | $4,027,168 | 4 |
| 1992-93 | $1,800,000 | $3,908,637 | 6 |
| 1993-94 | $2,700,000 | $5,694,933 | 4 |
| 1994-95 | $1,823,126 | $3,747,851 | 12 |
| 1995-96 | $3,703,803 | $7,406,148 | 11 |
| 1996-97 | $4,492,349 | $8,726,929 | 6 |
| 1997-98 | $5,079,063 | $9,641,107 | 9 |
| 1998-99 | $4,800,000 | $8,972,210 | 16 |
| 1999-00 | $6,000,000 | $10,974,907 | 13 |
| 2000-01 | $8,000,000 | $14,155,633 | 6 |
| 2001-02 | $7,500,000 | $12,905,913 | 18 |
| 2002-03 | $8,500,000 | $14,398,210 | 15 |
| 2003-04 | $5,849,823 | $9,689,286 | 38 |
| 2005-06 | $1,250,000 | $1,950,305 | 260 |
| Career Total | $68,857,448 | $130,199,775 | – |
What philanthropic causes or charities does Steve Yzerman support?
Stevie had always served as a community leader and role model. He sponsored numerous causes and was instrumental in organizing the Christmas trip to the Detroit Children’s Hospital.He founded the Steve Yzerman Foundation, which supports initiatives that benefit children and families experiencing medical and socioeconomic issues.
What businesses does Steve Yzerman own?
Since retiring as a player, Yzerman has mostly worked in management jobs in the NHL, including general manager for both the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Detroit Red Wings. In addition, he has held management responsibilities with Team Canada in international hockey competitions.
How many awards has Steve Yzerman won?
Steve Yzerman has earned numerous awards throughout his hockey career. Yzerman received this award in the 1988–89 NHL season. The Lester B. Pearson Award, now known as the Ted Lindsay Award, is presented annually to the most outstanding player in the NHL as voted by fellow members of the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA).
Yzerman was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1998. This prestigious accolade is presented annually to the most valuable player (MVP) during the NHL’s Stanley Cup playoffs. Yzerman earned the Frank J. Selke Trophy in the 1999–2000 NHL season. The Selke Trophy is awarded annually to the forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game.
Yzerman was honored with the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 2003. This award is presented annually to the NHL player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.
Yzerman’s extensive list of honors includes multiple All-Star Game appearances, recognition as a first-team All-Star, and induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009.
| Awards and Achievements | Year |
|---|---|
| NHL All-Star Game Roster | 1984, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1997, 1999, 2000 |
| NHL first team All-Star | 2000 |
| Lester B. Pearson Award | 1989 |
| Conn Smythe Trophy | 1998 |
| Frank J. Selke Trophy | 2000 |
| Stanley Cup champion (as player) | 1997, 1998, 2002 |
| Stanley Cup champion (as executive) | 2008 |
| Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy | 2003 |
| Lester Patrick Trophy | 2006 |
| Ice Hockey World Championships scoring leader | 1990 |
| Seventh in NHL history in points, tenth in goals, ninth in assists | – |
| First in Red Wings history in assists, second in points and goals, fourth in games played | – |
| Longest-serving captain for a team in league history | – |
| Number (19) retired with Canadian Men’s National Team | – |
| Named vice-president of Detroit Red Wings | 2006 |
| Detroit Red Wings #19 retired on January 2, 2007 | – |
| Named general manager of Team Canada | 2008 |
| Ranked sixth in The Hockey News “The Top 60 Since 1967 – The Best Players of the Post Expansion Era” | – |
| Inducted into Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame | 2008 |
| Inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame | 2008 |
| Inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame | 2008 |
| Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame | 2009 |
| Named general manager and vice-president of the Tampa Bay Lightning | May 2010 |
| Inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame | 2014 |
| Named to the Order of Hockey in Canada by Hockey Canada | 2014 |
| NHL General Manager of the Year Award | 2015 |
| Named on the 100 Greatest NHL Players list for the NHL’s Centennial Anniversary | 2017 |
| Named general manager and executive vice-president of the Detroit Red Wings | April 2019 |
Managerial Career: Steve Yzerman’s Time With Detroit Red Wings
Steve Yzerman, commonly known as “The Captain,” had an indelible impact on the Detroit Red Wings and the NHL as a whole, not just through his brilliant playing career, but also through his move to management. On September 25, 2006, the Red Wings made a significant decision by appointing Yzerman as team vice president and alternate governor.
On January 2, 2007, the Red Wings retired Yzerman’s jersey number, #19, in an emotional ceremony at Joe Louis Arena, marking the peak of his playing career. This ceremony was more than just a tribute to his on-ice accomplishments. As a further honor, Yzerman’s banner was emblazoned with the captain’s “C,”
On the same day he retired his jersey, Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick honored him with the key to the city of Detroit, to highlight his influence on the city’s identity and culture. Governor Jennifer Granholm officially announced January 13, 2007, as “Steve Yzerman Day” in Michigan, to emphasize his great popularity and admiration.
Yzerman’s honors continued to accrue after retirement, with inductions into various halls of fame. On January 11, 2008, the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame honored him, and on February 11, 2008, he was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. However, his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame on June 23, 2009, reaffirmed his place as one of the all-time greats in hockey history.
Despite his retirement from playing, Yzerman’s enthusiasm for the game remained unchanged. He aspired to be a manager, a passion he developed while working in the Red Wings’ front office. His experience with Hockey Canada, where he curated winning rosters from 2007 to 2010 developed his team management skills.
However, the opportunity to oversee an NHL team appeared elusive within the Red Wings organization. Despite allegations that owner Mike Ilitch attempted to facilitate Yzerman’s promotion to general manager, it was not fulfilled due to existing contractual commitments. Nonetheless, Yzerman’s determination and vision for hockey management were unrelenting.
The Red Wings disclosed on April 19, 2019, that they had appointed Yzerman as the team’s general manager, with the then-general manager, Ken Holland, moving to a senior vice president position.
1. Was Steve Yzerman the youngest player selected for the NHL All-Star Game roster in 1984?
Yes, indeed! Steve Yzerman made a mark in hockey history by becoming the youngest player ever selected for the NHL All-Star Game roster in 1984 at just 18 years old.
2. Did Steve Yzerman earn the nickname “The Captain”?
Absolutely! Steve Yzerman earned the revered nickname “The Captain” during his tenure with the Detroit Red Wings.
3. What unique honor did Steve Yzerman receive from the city of Detroit?
In a gesture of admiration and respect, the city of Detroit bestowed upon Steve Yzerman the key to the city. This prestigious honor was presented by Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick.
4. Was Steve Yzerman instrumental in the success of Team Canada?
Absolutely! Steve Yzerman as the general manager of Team Canada, he played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s roster and strategy. His leadership and strategic insight were instrumental in guiding Team Canada to numerous victories, including gold medals at the Winter Olympics.
5. What records does Steve Yzerman hold?
As the longest-serving captain for a team in NHL history, Yzerman served as captain of the Detroit Red Wings for 19 seasons, spanning 1,303 games.
In the Detroit Red Wings Franchise records, Yzerman ranks among the top players in Red Wings history, holding records for assists, and ranking second in points and goals. He also holds the fourth position in games played and ranks second all-time in seasons played with a single NHL franchise.
He also ranks seventh in all-time points, tenth in goals, and ninth in assists in the NHL. He contributed significantly to Team Canada’s international triumph. He won a gold medal at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics and served as Team Canada’s executive director, helping them win gold medals in 2010 and 2014.
How many Stanley Cups did Steve Yzerman win as a player?
Steve Yzerman won three Stanley Cups as a player with the Detroit Red Wings. He hoisted the coveted trophy in 1997, 1998, and 2002.
How many goals did Steve Yzerman Score in his Career?
Steve Yzerman spent 22 seasons with the Red Wings. In 1,514 games, he scored 692 goals and assisted 1,063 times, with a plus-minus of +184.