Mark Budz Podcast Interview

Canadian forward Mark Budz joins the show to reflect on a unique career that combined professional ice hockey and golf—a rare dual-sport journey. Mark looks back on three junior seasons with the Humboldt Broncos, sharing his emotional response to the 2018 bus tragedy and his return for a Broncos alumni game that showcased the global hockey community's support. His UK chapter began with the Solihull Barons (1983–85) under Gary Newbon, alongside Barry Skrudland and Chuck Taylor, recalling life with host families and the challenges of the three-import era. He then moved to the Telford Tigers (1985–87), becoming part of Chuck Taylor's ambitious project, intense rivalries and packed rinks. Uniquely, Mark pursued a parallel career as a Golf Professional, playing hockey at night with clubs including Deeside, Birmingham and Lee Valley. Later highlights included a prolific season with Romford Raiders (51 goals, 41 assists), time in Austria as a Golf Pro, and a final UK spell with Solihull Blaze and Oxford Blades before retiring in 1999. Today, Mark works in account management within the print industry.