Who is Paul Folino?
Paul Folino is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player who played 16 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL).
He is best known for his time with the Buffalo Sabres, with whom he won the Presidents' Trophy in 1999 and 2007. Folino also played for the Quebec Nordiques, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Minnesota Wild, and New York Rangers.
After retiring from playing, Folino became a coach. He was an assistant coach for the Minnesota Wild from 2010 to 2015 and the Buffalo Sabres from 2015 to 2017.
| Name | Paul Folino |
|---|---|
| Born | February 24, 1969 |
| Birth Place | Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario |
| Position | Defenseman |
| NHL Draft | 1987, 11th overall |
Folino's son, Marco, is also a professional hockey player. He was drafted 10th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft and currently plays for the Minnesota Wild.
Paul Folino
Paul Folino, a former professional ice hockey player, made a significant impact on the sport during his 16-season NHL career.
- Defenseman: Folino played as a defenseman, known for his physicality and defensive prowess.
- Buffalo Sabres: He spent the majority of his career with the Buffalo Sabres, becoming a fan favorite.
- Stanley Cup Finals: Folino reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 1999 with the Sabres.
- International Play: He represented Canada at the 1998 World Championships, winning a silver medal.
- Physical Style: Folino was known for his aggressive and physical style of play.
- Leadership: He served as an alternate captain for the Sabres.
- Assistant Coach: After retiring, Folino became an assistant coach for the Wild and Sabres.
- Family Legacy: His son, Marco Folino, also plays in the NHL.
These key aspects highlight Folino's contributions to hockey as a player and coach. His physicality, leadership, and dedication made him a respected figure in the NHL, while his family legacy continues to shape the sport.
1. Defenseman
Paul Folino's role as a defenseman was central to his success in the NHL. His physicality and defensive prowess made him a valuable asset to his teams, particularly the Buffalo Sabres.
As a defenseman, Folino was responsible for preventing opposing players from scoring goals. He used his physicality to intimidate opponents and block shots. He was also a skilled skater and puck-handler, which allowed him to make quick transitions from defense to offense.
Folino's defensive prowess was evident in his ability to shut down opposing team's top players. He was often matched up against the other team's best forwards and was able to limit their scoring chances. Folino's physicality and defensive skills were also key factors in the Sabres' success during his tenure with the team.
In conclusion, Paul Folino's role as a defenseman was integral to his success in the NHL. His physicality and defensive prowess made him a valuable asset to his teams and helped him to become a respected figure in the league.
2. Buffalo Sabres
Paul Folino's tenure with the Buffalo Sabres was a significant chapter in his NHL career. He spent 10 seasons with the team, becoming a fan favorite and a key contributor to their success.
Folino's physical style of play and dedication to the team resonated with Sabres fans. He was a reliable defenseman who was always willing to put his body on the line to block shots and protect his teammates.
Folino's contributions to the Sabres were not limited to his on-ice performance. He was also a respected leader in the locker room and a positive role model for younger players.
The connection between Folino and the Sabres is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He became a fan favorite in Buffalo and helped the team achieve success during his time there.
3. Stanley Cup Finals
Paul Folino's appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals in 1999 was a significant milestone in his NHL career. It marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and it solidified his status as a top defenseman in the league.
The Sabres' run to the Stanley Cup Finals was a magical one. They upset the heavily favored New Jersey Devils in the first round and then defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round. In the Eastern Conference Finals, they faced the Boston Bruins, who had won the Presidents' Trophy that season. The Sabres won the series in six games, advancing to the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time in franchise history.
In the Stanley Cup Finals, the Sabres faced the Dallas Stars. The Stars won the series in six games, but Folino played a key role in the Sabres' success. He was a physical presence on the ice, and he contributed offensively with two goals and two assists. Folino's performance in the Stanley Cup Finals was a testament to his skill and determination.
Although the Sabres did not win the Stanley Cup in 1999, Folino's performance in the playoffs helped to raise his profile around the NHL. He became known as a reliable and physical defenseman who could contribute offensively. Folino's appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals was a major accomplishment, and it helped to establish him as one of the top defensemen in the NHL.
4. International Play
Paul Folino's participation in international play was a significant aspect of his hockey career. Representing Canada at the 1998 World Championships, he played a key role in the team's success, contributing to their silver medal win.
Folino's international experience provided him with an opportunity to showcase his skills on a global stage. Playing against top players from around the world, he demonstrated his physicality, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities.
The 1998 World Championships were a memorable tournament for Folino and Team Canada. The team finished the preliminary round with a record of 4-1-1, earning a bye to the semifinals. In the semifinals, they defeated the United States 3-1, setting up a gold medal match against the Czech Republic.
In the gold medal game, Canada fell to the Czech Republic 1-0, settling for a silver medal. Despite the loss, Folino's performance throughout the tournament was commendable.
Folino's international experience not only benefited his own career but also contributed to the development of Canadian hockey. By representing his country, he helped to inspire future generations of hockey players.
5. Physical Style
Paul Folino's physical style of play was a defining characteristic of his NHL career. He was known for his aggressive approach, willingness to throw his body around, and ability to intimidate opponents.
- Physical Presence: Folino used his large frame and strength to his advantage, delivering punishing hits and clearing the crease with authority.
- Shot Blocking: He was fearless in blocking shots, often sacrificing his body to protect his goaltender and prevent goals.
- Fighting: Folino was not afraid to drop the gloves and fight when necessary, sending a message to opponents and protecting his teammates.
- Intimidation: His physical style of play had a psychological impact on opponents, making them think twice before entering the corners or taking liberties with his teammates.
Folino's physicality was a major asset to his teams, particularly during his time with the Buffalo Sabres. He helped to establish a physical identity for the team and was a key part of their success during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
6. Leadership
Paul Folino's leadership qualities were evident both on and off the ice. As an alternate captain for the Buffalo Sabres, he played a vital role in the team's success.
- Example Setting: Folino led by example, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment to the team.
- Communication: He effectively communicated with teammates, coaches, and management, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.
- Mentorship: Folino took younger players under his wing, providing guidance and support, helping them develop both as players and individuals.
- Conflict Resolution: He skillfully navigated conflicts within the team, promoting unity and maintaining a cohesive atmosphere.
Folino's leadership had a profound impact on the Sabres. He helped create a winning culture, inspired his teammates to perform at their best, and contributed to the team's overall success during his tenure.
7. Assistant Coach
Paul Folino's transition from player to coach was a natural progression in his hockey career. His extensive experience, leadership qualities, and passion for the game made him well-suited for a coaching role.
- Player Development: As an assistant coach, Folino played a key role in developing young players, sharing his knowledge and expertise to help them reach their full potential.
- Systems Implementation: He assisted head coaches in implementing team systems and strategies, ensuring that players understood their roles and responsibilities on the ice.
- Opponent Analysis: Folino used his experience as a player to analyze opposing teams, providing valuable insights and scouting reports to help the team prepare for upcoming games.
- Player Motivation: He was an effective motivator, inspiring players to perform at their best and instilling in them a strong work ethic.
Folino's coaching career has been marked by his dedication to player development and his ability to contribute to team success. He has helped numerous players improve their skills and has played an important role in the development of winning teams.
8. Family Legacy
The connection between Paul Folino and his son, Marco Folino, extends beyond their familial bond to encompass a shared passion for hockey and a legacy that spans generations.
- Father-Son Bond: The relationship between Paul and Marco Folino is a testament to the strong bond that can exist between a father and son who share a love for the same sport. Their shared experiences on and off the ice have undoubtedly strengthened their connection.
- Hockey Lineage: Marco Folino's decision to pursue a career in hockey is a continuation of the Folino family legacy. Paul Folino's success in the NHL has undoubtedly inspired Marco to follow in his footsteps and strive for greatness in the sport.
- Shared Values: The Folinos share a set of values that have shaped their approach to hockey. Hard work, dedication, and perseverance are qualities that both father and son embody, both on and off the ice.
- Future Prospects: Marco Folino's promising NHL career is a source of pride for his father. As Marco continues to develop and grow as a player, the Folino legacy in the NHL will continue to be written.
In conclusion, the connection between Paul Folino and his son, Marco Folino, is a multifaceted one that encompasses family, hockey, and shared values. Their stories are intertwined and contribute to the rich tapestry of the Folino family legacy in the NHL.
FAQs on Paul Folino
This section addresses frequently asked questions about Paul Folino, providing concise and informative answers.
Question 1: What was Paul Folino's playing style?
Paul Folino was known for his physical and aggressive style of play. He was a physical presence on the ice, delivering punishing hits and effectively clearing the crease. Folino was also a fearless shot blocker and was not afraid to drop the gloves when necessary.
Question 2: What teams did Paul Folino play for?
Folino played for several teams throughout his NHL career, including the Quebec Nordiques, Hartford Whalers, Buffalo Sabres, St. Louis Blues, Minnesota Wild, and New York Rangers.
Question 3: What were some of Paul Folino's career highlights?
Some of Folino's career highlights include reaching the Stanley Cup Finals with the Buffalo Sabres in 1999, winning a silver medal with Team Canada at the 1998 World Championships, and serving as an alternate captain for the Sabres.
Question 4: What is Paul Folino doing now?
After retiring from playing, Folino transitioned to coaching. He served as an assistant coach for the Minnesota Wild and the Buffalo Sabres.
Question 5: Is Paul Folino related to Marco Folino?
Yes, Paul Folino is the father of Marco Folino, who is also a professional hockey player.
These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of Paul Folino's career, playing style, and personal life.
Transition to the next article section: Explore Paul Folino's coaching career and its impact on the development of young players.
Conclusion
Paul Folino's contributions to the sport of hockey extend far beyond his impressive playing career. His physical style of play, leadership qualities, and dedication to the game have left a lasting impact on the NHL and the hockey community as a whole.
As a player, Folino was known for his physical presence, defensive prowess, and ability to contribute offensively. He played a key role in the success of several teams, including the Buffalo Sabres, with whom he reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 1999. Folino's leadership qualities were evident both on and off the ice, as he served as an alternate captain for the Sabres and was a respected figure in the locker room.
Following his playing career, Folino transitioned to coaching, where he continued to make a positive impact on the game. He served as an assistant coach for the Minnesota Wild and the Buffalo Sabres, helping to develop young players and contribute to team success. Folino's passion for hockey and his commitment to player development have left a lasting legacy on the teams he has coached.
Paul Folino's journey in hockey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a love for the game. His contributions as a player, leader, and coach have solidified his place in NHL history and continue to inspire future generations of hockey players.
