White was never drafted by the NHL. Instead the Blackhawks took a chance on him by signing him as a free agent when he graduated (with two degrees - accounting and finance) from Clarkson University where he also scored 197 points in four seasons.
White learned a lot more than about such high money topics at school.
"I learned a lot of life skills there, how to treat people," he said. "Most of all, I learned how to learn. Going in I was kind of smart, but didn't know how I ticked and how to become a better person."
White would spend much of his first four pro-seasons playing in the minors and learning how to be a pro hockey player.
"If you're not putting up 50 goals a year, you need to know how to play both ends of the ice," he noted.
White put everything together when his hometown Senators gave him a chance.
"When I got to Ottawa I changed my game so I wasn't a prolific scorer, but be a responsible two-way centerman," White said. "I think that's my strength at this level. I tried to prove right away that I could be trusted and responsible as a player. (Coach) Jacques Martin really took to that, and really gave me a chance as the (2000-01) season moved along. It was fourth line, but the next year I really got a great opportunity playing with Daniel Alfredsson. I think I got to be more of a playmaker then and set up the off guys."
White tried to make up for his lack of size and straight-ahead speed with strong offensive instincts and terrific quickness laterally. He was a crafty utility player blessed with versatility in that he could play any forward position. He had a heavy shot that allowed him to score 19 goals or more in 4 NHL seasons.
All said, Todd White was a nice little player who played in 653 NHL games. He scored 141 goals, 240 goals and 381 points. He added another 8 goals and 11 points in 43 post season contests.
When his vagabond hockey career was over White and his wife Sarah - also an Ottawa native - returned to Ottawa. He became involved in youth hockey as well as with radio broadcasts for Senators games.
One thing is for sure - Todd White has never taken his hockey success for granted.
"I feel very, very fortunate. I think of all the guys I've played with, how many would give anything to be where I am. I never take a day for granted. For young guys, hard work and trying to do the right thing and learning the game the best you can with coaches you have, a lot of guys can realize their dreams."
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