Once-proud Vancouver Giants franchise seeking return to glory
VANCOUVER — Gordie Howe is gone, but the Vancouver Giants want to make sure his impact on their franchise will never be forgotten.
The Giants will honour the late hockey legend in a pre-game ceremony when they host the Everett Silvertips in their Western Hockey League season opener Friday. In addition to paying tribute to Howe, a former minority owner of the team who was adored by players, the Giants will use the ceremony as a springboard in their quest to revitalize their once-proud franchise.
“It’s not about what Gordie was as a hockey player and all the accolades and all the accomplishments he had, which are limitless,” said Giants owner Ron Toigo. “This is really about what Gordie meant to the Vancouver Giants and what the Vancouver Giants meant to Gordie.”
The Giants will celebrate Howe’s legacy in a pre-game video salute. Vancouver players will wear special jerseys featuring his name and famous No. 9, which the club will retire, and special pucks bearing his number will be used during the game.