He added, “We’re learning a lot from each other and trying to build this thing together and have fun and just keep pushing each other along the way.”

The two teammates’ friendship was beginning to blossom by the time their families spent Thanksgiving together. The two clans got along well, as their fathers, who had exchanged punches years ago, exchanged holiday pleasantries instead.

“When Tie and I met, it was almost like we’d known each other for a long time,” said Jeff Chychrun, who retired in 1994. “I think we’re all so happy that our kids were able to get to the next level.”

The two families reunited for Christmas. It was the first time, Jeff Chychrun said, that he had spent Christmas somewhere other than Ottawa, his hometown. Max’s mother, Leanne, prepared Christmas dinner, and her boyfriend, Troy, made breakfast the next morning.