If you love hockey, chances are you’ve heard the name Grant Fuhr. A Canadian former National Hockey League (NHL) goaltender and Hall of Famer, Grant is now bringing his expertise to the Coachella Valley Firebirds as a TV broadcast cohost and color commentator. He’s been calling the desert home for the past 16 years, originally moving here after he started dating his now-wife, Lisa. Together, they’ve built a life filled with family—five kids, five grandkids, and their sweet pup, Coco. Beyond the rink, Grant is a dedicated family man, a passionate advocate for the sport, and a philanthropist committed to giving back to his community.

 

Grant’s career in hockey is legendary. Best known for his tenure with the Edmonton Oilers in the 1980s, Grant played a pivotal role in securing five Stanley Cup championships for the team. A six-time All-Star, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest players. In 2017, he was honored as one of the "100 Greatest NHL Players" in history. Beyond the accolades, Grant was also a trailblazer, breaking barriers as the first Black goaltender to win a Stanley Cup and the first to be inducted into the NHL Hall of Fame.

 

Reflecting on his time in the NHL, Grant shares, “I was lucky enough to play for maybe the best team ever. The team was special as we treated each other like family. The best thing that I have taken out of the game is the lifelong friendships that I am lucky to have and the fact I got to live my dream and play in the NHL. Playing professional hockey has shown me the ups and downs in life and how important it is to give back.”

 

When professional hockey arrived in the California desert in 2023 with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, Grant found a natural fit in helping introduce the game to a new audience. Now, he’s a familiar voice for Firebirds fans, working alongside Gino Lamont on pre- and post-game coverage and calling live games on the radio with Evan Pivnick. His expertise and insights bring the excitement of the game to fans throughout the region.

 

But Grant’s impact goes beyond the microphone. He also serves as the president of the One Valley Foundation (onevalleyfoundation.org), the philanthropic arm of the Firebirds' commitment to the local community. The foundation focuses on three core pillars: Education, Community, and Access to Hockey. Through specialty night jersey auctions, 50/50 raffles at Firebirds games, an annual golf tournament, and other fundraising events, they’re able to make a real difference in the Coachella Valley. For Grant, the most rewarding part is seeing the smiles on people’s faces and working with incredible individuals who share his passion for giving back.

 

Outside of hockey, Grant has embraced life in the Coachella Valley, drawn to its sunny weather, vibrant hockey scene, and world-class golf courses. His favorite local activities include calling Firebirds games with Evan and Gino, playing golf (“my wife might say a lot of golf,” he jokes), and exploring the region’s diverse dining options. An ideal day for Grant consists of a morning on the golf course, an excellent dinner, and an evening of hockey with great company.

  

For those visiting the area, Grant’s advice is simple: “Take time and enjoy all the valley has to offer.” With beautiful landscapes, a thriving community, and a growing hockey culture, the Coachella Valley has something for everyone.

 

Whether he’s calling the action for the Firebirds, leading charitable efforts through the One Valley Foundation, or simply enjoying a round of golf, Grant Fuhr has made a lasting mark on the Coachella Valley. His passion for hockey, commitment to giving back, and love for his community make him a true local legend.

 

 

Breakfast: Breakfast Republic

Burger: Grill-A-Burger

Mexican: Fresh Agave

Coffee: Starbucks

Sweets Handel’s

Hike: the golf course

Festival: Music festivals in Coachella and the Stagecoach Festival 

Event: One Valley Foundation’s golf tournament

Hidden gem: Patio at Desert Willow—it’s a great spot and underrated.