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WHL Saskatoon Blades

Gardner Named East Division Nominee for WHL Humanitarian of the Year

April 2, 2024 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Saskatoon Blades News Release


Saskatoon, SK - The Saskatoon Blades are proud to announce rookie goal Evan Gardner is the East Division nominee for the 2023-24 WHL Humanitarian of the Year Award. The league announced all four division nominees Tuesday afternoon.

The 18-year-old netminder was forced to come to training camp early due to the forest fires in Kelowna, BC, and got to work with the community of Saskatoon immediately. Upon arrival, Gardner dedicated his time all week at our inaugural hockey school as a first year Blade.

The Fort St. John, BC native has already shown leadership and maturity well beyond his years. The NHL draft-eligible goalie became a role model for people living with diabetes after he shared his story about being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 11 years old. Gardner's story resonated with people also living with diabetes and showed people who struggle with the disease that their dreams are still possible. "Don't let it take a negative toll on you, you're still a normal person" was something Gardner made sure to get across to those who have a hard time with the disease.

After going public with his diagnosis, Gardner partnered with Diabetes Canada for the Lace Up to End Diabetes initiative during Diabetes Awareness Month in November. Gardner led the "Unite the Circle" challenge in which Blades fans walked the concourse of SaskTel Centre on November 17th to raise funds for Diabetes Canada. After the game, Gardner offered to meet with the participants unprompted. Gardner continues to be an ambassador for Diabetes Canada and hopes to take the initiative even further in the future.

On top of all his work with Diabetes Canada, Gardner has some of the most hours in the community this year representing the Blades. The organization received a call from Eden Care Home (a home for individuals living with diversabilities) about Gardner's visit on Feb. 21st, 2024. The club was told of how thrilled residents of the home were to spend time with Evan, and how courteous he was with his time while there.

Gardner also spent several nights at minor hockey practices across the city to help teach kids fundamentals of the game, but also spark passion in the league's future stars. With all his work around Saskatoon, Gardner balanced school alongside the hectic schedule of the WHL and is one of the top goalies in the league. The 6-foot-2 netminder understands the importance of success on the ice but also knows the impact and inspiration he has on the community is more important.

Gardner is well respected by his teammates, coaches, opponents, and fans. On behalf of the entire organization, congratulations Evan on being nominated for WHL Humanitarian of the Year, and thank you for all your contributions to the city of Saskatoon this season!

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