SWIFT CURRENT, Sask. - Long-time sports fan Tracy Moen was excited to receive a permanent recognition in the Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame. Moen saw his brick installed on the Founders Wall of Fame for the first time and was clearly excited.
The Founders Wall of Fame is a permanent tribute within the Hall of Fame to honour individuals, volunteers and teams that have impacted communities throughout the Province. For a one time charitable contribution of $1,000, it is a great way to honour those who have given so much to the game or have such passion for the game of hockey in Saskatchewan from the larger cities to the smallest of towns.
“Tracy is pretty synonymous with hockey in our city. He’s always at Bronco games, minor hockey games – he’s been at the rink as long as I can remember. He was there when I was growing up and playing hockey and he’s still there as a passionate fan as I’m taking my son to the rink. I think it’s really fitting that Tracy has a founder’s brick in the Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame because of how much he loves the game and how much time he’s spent at the rink watching all levels of hockey,” said Board Member Jerrod Schafer.
“Our family purchased a brick for Tracy to both celebrate his birthday and as a way to say thank you to the community. Although he often will state he’s cheering for the visitors, he’s always supported local sports teams while watching nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Secondly, a plaque in Tracy’s name is also a way for us to acknowledge everyone who has helped to ensure he would be included. Those who have given countless rides to and from rinks and ball diamonds to ensure Tracy could be there is a great example of the fabric of the community that will ensure community sports will always remain strong. This is to celebrate Tracy, but also all those who have helped Tracy fulfill his passion for sports through the years,” said brother Brent Moen.
Many others are also utilizing the Founders Wall as a way to tribute championship teams or community builders who have impacted many lives by their commitment and contributions to the game and their community. Weyburn Minor Hockey recently honoured the 2014 Esso Cup National Champion AAA Gold Wings and Warman Minor Hockey purchased a brick in the name of their organization as well.
“Everywhere is Saskatchewan there are examples of people or teams that may not be inducted into the hall of fame, but can certainly have a permanent spot in there with support from their community. Think about the community pride from championship teams in senior or minor hockey. Volunteers who tirelessly worked to keep the rink going in the cold Saskatchewan winters or the coaches and managers who were always there as mentors for kids the game or keep the senior teams operating. Those individuals deserve recognition like this and I really hope former players and community leaders seize this opportunity to do just that!” stated Schafer.
If anyone is interested in purchasing a brick or creating a local fundraising effort to honour a special team or volunteer can contact the Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame by calling 306-773-3031.