WEST VALLEY CITY — Don and Carol Leeb were probably the only hockey fans in the E Center just as happy Wednesday as they were Tuesday.
The same teams met both nights but with very different results. Tuesday the Grizzlies won in an overtime shootout against the Blades, while Wednesday Kansas City crushed Utah 5-2.
See, they keep score a little differently. Tuesday night their older son, Greg Leeb, had an assist on Utah's second goal. Wednesday night, he had an assist on their first goal, while their younger son, Brad Leeb, scored a goal for Kansas City in the third period.
The Leebs traveled to Salt Lake City from Red Deer, Alberta, to watch their sons play in their first professional hockey game against each other.
Greg and Brad Leeb are in their third and second years as professionals, respectively, and both have spent time in the NHL after going undrafted.
Greg and Brad have played against each other before, in Juniors. Mom said the five times they played against each other ended in two wins for each and one tie. Looks like things will continue to be even between the Leebs for awhile after both teams earned a win this week.
Carol Leeb said she doesn't really cheer during the games, only hopes they both do well. She starts each game the same way.
"I give them a hug and a kiss, every time I watch them," she said. They chose to travel to this week's games because it was a chance to be together as a family.
"It's a thrill to watch them," Don Leeb said. "I've always enjoyed it. And for them to get to this level is very exciting."
Their only sons started playing hockey around first or second grade. They've dabbled in baseball, soccer and golf, but Mom and Dad say the two never thought of making a living any other way.
"From day one, this was their dream, to go as far as they could go," Carol Leeb said. "I don't think one of them ever thought of quitting."
They started playing hockey because, Don Leeb said, that's what you do in Canada.
"Growing up in Canada, they really do have one thing in mind, and that's playing hockey," he said. "I still try (to play hockey). I've always loved the game."
They said their sons are driven, but not to compete with each other.
"It's kind of exciting to play against him," Brad Leeb said. All characterize their relationship as very supportive, laced with the usual sibling rivalry. Both men said they don't consciously take it easy on each other but can't remember getting rough on the ice, either.
"We have respect for each other on the ice," said Greg Leeb.
E-MAIL: adonaldson@desnews.com