The Winnipeg Blues have established a Hall of Fame, honouring the past and those who have had an impact on the Junior “A” hockey club.
The Blues have a storied history reaching 87 years and the Hall of Fame will be a way to showcase the accomplishments of past players, coaches, and builders.
The first inductee announced Thursday was Grant Ledyard, who played with the Fort Garry Blues, now the Winnipeg Blues, from 1978 to 1980 and then again in 1981-82.
“It’s an honour to be recognized by the team that gave me a chance to play Junior “A” hockey, and come back to Winnipeg to see all my friends and family,” Ledyard said.
The Winnipeg native now lives in Buffalo, New York and was an integral part of the Blues winning the Turnbull Cup (MJHL Championship) in the 1981-82 season. Ledyard went on to play 1028 NHL games, recording 90 goals and 276 assists for 366 points on 8 different NHL teams
Ledyard’s #3 jersey will be raised to the rafters at the MTS Iceplex during a ceremony on Friday, February 3. Grant will also be dropping the puck that night to kick off festivities for the Blues’ alumni weekend.
The “Wiley Veterans” alumni game for players ages 45+ is scheduled for 5:15-6:15 p.m. on Saturday, February 4 with the “Young Guns” alumni game for players ages 21-45 to follow from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Both Winnipeg Blues games have 7 p.m. start times at the MTS Iceplex that weekend.