When Linus Ullmark decided to sign a long-term deal with the Ottawa Senators, many expected the usual story—a star player choosing a team based on money or championship potential. But for Ullmark, the choice to stay in Ottawa was about much more than hockey. It was about creating a lifestyle that suited him as both a professional athlete and a family man.
In the interview below, Ullmark shared his thought process and how the Senators became his ideal team.
The Moment Ullmark Realized Ottawa Was the Best Fit
During the interview, Ullmark reflected on the pivotal moment when he realized Ottawa was the right place for him.
“I think it’s always sort of been there in the back of my mind,” Ullmark said. “Throughout the process—whether I was being traded or during free agency—I had conversations with so many people. It wasn’t just with team management or players; I spoke to my friends in the league and others who had played in Ottawa. Their feedback made a big difference.”
Related: Senators Extend Linus Ullmark to 4 Year Contract
He explained that the decision wasn’t just based on the organization and the overall environment. Ullmark valued input from players and staff who had been with the Senators and others in the NHL who knew the city well. “A lot of people around the league had good things to say about Ottawa—the players, coaching staff, and even the trainers. It just made me feel like this was a good place to live my daily life and play hockey.”
Hockey and Family: A Balancing Act
For Ullmark, being a husband and father weighed heavily in his decision-making process. It wasn’t just about his career but what was best for his family.
“My kids and wife mean everything to me,” he said. “I would do anything for them, which was at the core of my decision to stay in Ottawa. It’s not just about playing in a city where the hockey’s good, but also where my family can thrive.”
Ullmark talked about how important it was for his children to grow up in a stable, family-friendly environment. With its reputation as a safe, community-oriented city, Ottawa checked all the boxes for him and his wife. “It’s not just about me anymore. My family’s happiness and well-being come first, and Ottawa is a great place to raise kids.”
A Culture of Positivity: The Key to Ullmark’s Decision
Another…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at The Hockey Writers…