By JAMES TUBB on February 10, 2022.
jtubb@medicinehatnews.com@ReporterTubb The Western hockey community is mourning the loss of former Regina Pat Brad Hornung. Hornung passed away Tuesday evening following a brief battle with cancer at the age of 52 according to a press release from the Pats. He was to turn 53 on Sunday. The Regina product played two seasons with the Pats from 1985-87. On March 1, 1987, his playing career came to a premature end when he suffered a severe spinal cord injury following an on-ice collision, rendering him a quadriplegic. After the injury, Hornung stayed in the game of hockey, serving as a scout for many years, including a three-year tenure as an amateur scout with the Chicago Blackhawks before working with the NHL’s Central Scouting Service. His number eight was retired by the Pats. “Brad was not only a great friend to all of us at the WHL, but his positive outlook on life was an inspiration to everyone who knew him,” said WHL commissioner Ron Robison in a press release Wednesday. Tigers assistant coach Josh Maser said Wednesday morning it was sad news to hear. “Our condolences to him, his family and the organization, it’s terrible to hear,” Maser said. In 1988, the WHL introduced the Brad Hornung Trophy, awarded annually to the WHL player who best displays the same attributes as Brad – talent, desire and an unmistakable sportsmanlike attitude. 10