Leaf legend George Armstrong meets friends and admirers Friday night
The affable hockey legend George Armstrong chatted, laughed, signed books, old pictures and pucks, posed for pictures and surely seemed to have a fine time Friday night at the Leaside Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Reception. The former Leaf’s captain was decidedly himself: unpretentious, good-natured and proudly wearing an aboriginal Thunderbird necklace in honour of his mother, a full-blooded Ojibway. Armstrong is a 55-year resident of Leaside.
INDUCTEES
He joined four other new members of the Hall of Fame for 2015: Laurie Irwin in the sport of basketball, Pat Friesen, a talented multi-sport athlete, Annie Fahlenbock for contributions to women’s hockey and Norm “Charlie” Ahier for his contributions to baseball. The event was held at the William Lea Room of the Leaside Arena. Armstrong was known universally among fans and players as “The Chief” for his captaincy of the Leafs. He played 21 seasons for the team and scored the final goal of the original six era when Toronto won the 1967 Stanley Cup. The Chief turned 85 this year.
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Upper Canada College student and promising hockey professional Reid Humphrey was honoured as Athlete of the Year. The guest speaker was Brian McFarlane. The gathering heard a tribute to David Stickney from Howard Birnie. The Master of Ceremonies was Anthony Reagan. Many firms contributed to the fruition of this third annual induction ceremony and community reception: They are listed as Grilltime, Leaside Life, McDowell’s ValuMart, Stanley Manufacturing, Telegramme Prints, G.M. Thornton and Son and Wisey’s Pies. Financial support was given by Lexus on the Park and PatrickRocca.com Bosley Real Estate.
