Sydney man to coach The Great One Wayne Gretzky at USA vs Canada 2016 Ice Hockey Classic

WHEN ice hockey legend Wayne Gretzky jets into town, this lucky Sydney man will get a chance to meet him — then COACH him in an actual game.

North Sydney chiropractor and barrister Peter Gwozdecky will coach The Great One Wayne Gretzky in an exhibition ice hockey match on Saturday. Picture: Carly Earl

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WHEN ice hockey legend Wayne Gretzky takes to the rink for an exhibition match on Saturday, a lower north shore resident will be his coach.

The Great One, 55, will play in a four-on-four game before the main event of USA vs. Canada at Qudos Bank Arena as part of the Wayne Gretzky 2016 Ice Hockey Classic.

North Sydney’s Peter Gwozdecky will also be on duty as a chiropractor for the main game.

Retired ice hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. Picture: AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill

Dr Gwozdecky said it would be the only chance for fans to see the “international superstar” in action on the ice in Australia.

“To have Gretzky visiting is a big thrill,” he said.

“I very much look forward to meeting him and working with him.

“He is arguably the greatest ice hockey player of all time.”

Canadian-born Dr Gwozdecky has a lifelong association with ice hockey through playing, coaching and leading sports medicine administrator roles.

Gretzky plays for the New York Rangers in December 1997. Picture: Al Bello/Allsport

The classic features five exhibition games across Australia, starring current and recently retired National Hockey League players and minor leaguers.

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