Medicine Hat Tigers forward Gavin McKenna unleashes a shot in the first period of the opening game of the 105th Memorial Cup hosted in Rimouski, Que. Medicine Hat's mayor and city council have officially recognized the team for its championship season and Memorial Cup finalist performance.--NEWS PHOTO JAMES TUBB
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The City of Medicine, not just its citizens, is officially proud of the Tigers, as noted by formal statements ahead of Monday night’s council meetings recognizing the team’s accomplishments.
“I want to congratulate them on their second-place finish at the Memorial Cup and their Western Hockey League championship,” said Clark at the meeting’s opening in council cambers.
“You get to a final game, and for the team and the players, it’s got to be just the pits not to win. But, from my perspective as mayor and councillors around this table and as community members, we are just so very proud of you.
“You represented our city with humility, respect and sportsmanship, and some amazing hockey. The excitement and joy that you brought was spectacular. You could feel the buzz in the community.
“From our perspective you’re champions and hometown heroes.”
The Tigers captured the franchise’s sixth league championship in May after posting a conference-best record during the regular season.
Large crowds came out to cheer on the team led by captain Oasiz Wiesblatt, phenom Gavin McKenna, a group of strong NHL draftees, younger players and goaltender Harrison Meneghin.
The city opened Co-op Place for a watch party during Sunday’s Memorial Cup tournament final, where about 3,900 people registered to view the game at no charge in the 6,000-seat arena where the Tigers play home games.
City councillors and top city hall staff volunteered during the event to direct crowds, work concessions and help out with craft tables for kids and a huge chalk mural at centre ice.
Council members also thanked city staff and volunteers for arranging and staffing the event on short notice.
Another event, hosted concurrent with the council meeting Monday, saw fans return to the arena for a farewell event featuring player speeches and autograph and picture session with the team.
Coun. Robert Dumanowski said the Tigers season was “inspiring.”
“It’s an incredible season,” he said. “It’s a tremendous achievement that reflects relentless dedication, teamwork and a fighting spirit that’s long been the pride of our community.
“You represented Medicine Hat with class and courage … it showed the country the strength of this team and our city.”
