All-Time American-Born Wins Leader Gets Dishonored And Has His Banner Removed From The Rafters
The Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League have taken down John Vanbiesbrouck's retired jersey #1 from the GFL Memorial Gardens.
Team Dishonors John Vanbiesbrouck By Removing His Banner Name And Number From The Rafters
The removal reportedly occurred around Joe Thornton's jersey retirement ceremony on November 4th. Hounds owner Tim Lukenda stated that it's part of updating the retired jerseys and aims to create a welcoming environment for everyone.
«Basically, we want to make sure we are creating a welcoming environment for all of our guests, players, former players and families.»
Although Vanbiesbrouck's number will stay retired, it won't be worn by any future Greyhound players.
Vanbiesbrouck, who played 20 NHL seasons, resigned as head coach and GM of the Greyhounds in 2003 following a disgraceful behavior to describe team captain Trevor Daley. He subsequently sold his stake in the team. In response to the removal, the Hockey Diversity Alliance issued a statement on behalf of Daley, expressing relief at not having to relive that painful moment in the arena.
The Hockey Diversity Alliance released a statement on behalf of Daley regarding the news.
«The one very dark and racist moment of my hockey career is somethign that I had to relive each time I returned to the Gardens and looked up to the rafters,» Daly continued. «The next time I enter the Gardens, look up, and not have to relive one of the worst moments of my life eliminates a major source of anger and frustration for both me and my family. It will allow our family to focus on all the very great things that playing for the Greyhounds and in Sault Ste. Marie meant for me as a hockey player and a person.»
Daley, who played 16 NHL seasons, winning Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins, emphasized the impact of the racist incident on his career. He currently serves as a special assistant to the Penguins' President of Hockey Ops and GM, also being part of an ownership group that acquired the Soo Thunderbirds in 2021.
| POLL | ||
30 JANVIER | 336 ANSWERS All-Time American-Born Wins Leader Gets Dishonored And Has His Banner Removed From The Rafters Do you think this was the right move? | ||
| Yes | 116 | 34.5 % |
| No | 220 | 65.5 % |
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