WHL’s Saskatoon Blades to hold ‘Thank You, Mr. Hockey’ Day

By @StefanKubus –

The late Gordie Howe grew up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and now the city and Western Hockey League team stationed there have big plans to honor Mr. Hockey this season.

On Wednesday, the city of Saskatoon officially announced September 25th, 2016 as Thank You, Mr. Hockey Day.

The day is set to begin with a private ceremony in the morning at SaskTel Centre – home of the Saskatoon Blades – where the Howe family will have the ashes of Gordie and his wife Colleen interred in a statue of Mr. Hockey.

The general public can partake in a tailgate party at SaskTel Centre at noon CST, where there will be live music, food and other entertainment.

At 1 p.m., the doors to the arena open where fans can see various displays in the arena featuring trophies Howe had won and artwork. A special pre-game ceremony will begin at 2 p.m., setting up a 2:25 p.m. puck drop for the Blades against the Swift Current Broncos.

The Blades will be wearing special tribute jerseys for the game, honoring Howe, as well memorial stickers on their helmets all season long.

For more information on the day, including ticket sales for those who may want to make the trip, can be found here.

The jerseys to be worn by the Blades: