“It’s very humbling to walk into an arena named after one of our members. I think that’s an amazing story to tell for such a tragic event.”
Chief Warren Driechel was speaking at the inaugural In Their Honour Invitational Hockey Tournament which took place this past weekend.
The event brought together first responders from across the province in an atmosphere of camaraderie, competition, and support.
It was organized by Laurie and Bob Ryan in honour of their son Constable Brett Ryan and other first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Brett was an avid hockey player and referee, and it seemed fitting to host the tournament at the Spruce Grove hockey arena named in his honour.
“We knew how much hockey meant to him,” said Laurie Ryan, “and we just felt this was the best way to honour his legacy.”
The funds raised through the tournament will be going toward scholarships and workshops for mental health for first responders.
“It’s heartwarming to find there are so many people in the first responder world who are going to support this,” Laurie Ryan said.