Guido Tenesi: From Hockey Rink to Silver Screen and Back

Guido Tenesi, a former hockey player, left a mark both on and off the ice. He was known for his role in the 1977 film "Slap Shot. " He died at 71 years old. His passing was announced by the Hershey Bears, a team he played for in the 1974 Calder Cup championship. Tenesi's journey in hockey began when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1973. He spent two years with the Hershey Bears, their minor-league affiliate. His hockey career spanned over seven seasons, playing in various pro leagues. One of his notable achievements was leading the Johnstown Jets to the North American Hockey League championship in 1975. His time with the Jets was pivotal. It was during this period that he caught the eye of filmmakers. His experiences with the team, including their rowdy antics, were documented by his teammate Ned Dowd. Dowd's sister, Nancy, was writing a hockey movie, and these notes became the basis for "Slap Shot. " Tenesi played Billy Charlebois in the film. He recalled the experience as fascinating, enjoying the behind-the-scenes process. "Slap Shot" tells the story of a struggling minor league hockey team, the Charlestown Chiefs, led by Reggie Dunlop, played by Paul Newman. Tenesi's role in the film was his only acting credit. After retiring from hockey in 1987, Tenesi worked as a swimming pool technician in Toronto. He never sought fame, content with his contributions to the sport and the film industry. His teammates and friends remembered him as a genuine person, both on and off the screen. Steve Carlson, who played Steve Hanson in the film, mourned Tenesi as a "good guy gone too soon. " Tenesi's legacy includes winning the 1975 Lockhart Cup with the Jets and the IHL's Governor Trophy in 1979, awarded to the league's top defenseman. His authenticity and dedication to the game left a lasting impact on those who knew him. He was remembered for his on-ice grit, international pride, and silver-screen cool. Tenesi's passing was a loss to the hockey world and the film community, leaving behind memories of a man who lived his life with honor and class.