Bring It In, Bro: Best Boston Sports Hugs on National Hug Day

A hug can mean a lot, especially in the world of Boston sports. The Boston Globe

By Jake Reiser

January 21, 2015

2 minutes to read

Sometimes, there’s nothing better than wrapping your arms around someone in a big bear hug, and today, it’s not only recognized, but encouraged. National Hug Day is a time to share a hug with somebody you are close to. Or maybe you just need to hug it out with someone in the office. The sporting world offers up an array of huggable opportunities, and here are some of the most memorable hugs in Boston sports history.

David Ortiz and Koji Uehara

Maybe two of the best huggers in the modern sports era, Big Papi‘s celebratory hugs with Koji Uehara are legendary, particularly when the Red Sox won the 2013 World Series over the Cardinals.

Alan Embree and Jason Varitek

A hug to avenge demons of years past, Jason Varitek jumped right into the arms of lefty Alan Embree after the last out of Game 7 of the the 2004 ALCS against the New York Yankees. The Yankees had a 3-0 lead in the series, had beaten the Sox in the ALCS the previous year on an Aaron Boone walkoff homerun. Easily one of the greatest Boston sports hugs ever.

Andrew Ference and Brad Marchand

The 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs were a long and successful few months for the Boston Bruins, winning three Game 7s in their quest to hoist the Stanley Cup. Brad Marchand jumped into the wide open arms of Andrew Ference after scoring a shorthanded goal in Game 3 of the Cup Finals against the Vancouver Canucks.

Robert Kraft and Anyone

Robert Kraft is one of the most respected owners in the NFL, and he’s definetly not afraid to show the love, embracing former Patriot Ty Law while inducting him to the Patriots Hall of Fame.

Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce

A hug between two members of the Celtics “Big 3’’, Garnett and Pierce helped bring a NBA Chamionship to the city of Boston in 2008. Although both have departed, they will be remembered for their success as members of the C’s.