BIOGRAPHY

Derek Boogaard (born on June 23, 1982, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan) is a Canadian professional ice hockey left winger who currently plays for the Minnesota Wild of the National Hockey League (NHL). Known primarily as a fighter and enforcer, he is nicknamed the “Boogeyman” and “The Mountie”. A 2007 survey of NHL players showed that Boogaard was the second most intimidating player in the NHL.

Boogaard played major junior hockey in the Western Hockey League (WHL) for the Regina Pats, Prince George Cougars and Medicine Hat Tigers. After recording 9 points and 245 penalty minutes with the Cougars in 2000–01, he was drafted in the 7th round, 202nd overall, by the Minnesota Wild in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.

Midway through the 2002–03 season, he turned pro and joined the Louisiana IceGators of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL). He then spent two seasons with the Houston Aeros before earning a roster spot with the Wild in 2005–06.

In July 2007, the Minnesota Wild signed Boogard to a multi-year deal.

Boogaard and his brother Aaron, who plays hockey for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League, run the Derek and Aaron Boogaard Fighting Camp in Regina, Saskatchewan, for children ages 12 to 18.