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WHL Saskatoon Blades

'It Meant the Whole World': Blades Welcome Bobby Kirkness into the Stands

March 20, 2021 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Saskatoon Blades News Release


It all comes down to three words for the Saskatoon Blades this season - Play For Bobby.

This, to honour and recognize the team's decade-long lockerroom attendant, Bobby Kirkness, who's battling stage 4 pancreatic and liver cancer.

Last night, as the blue and gold skated to a pivotal 3-1 victory over their rivals, the Prince Albert Raiders, this short token of inspiration was appropriately changed to Play With Bobby.

The man who's ritually considered the lifeblood of the organization was given access to enjoy the game from the Brandt Centre stands, giving him the ability to cheer his teammates to victory.

"We were aware of it, over the last week or so, that the Western Hockey League was going to allow him access to come down here," said head coach Mitch Love. "What a special moment for him."

"That meant the whole world, being able to see him was really inspiring," said goaltender Nolan Maier, fresh off a 17-save performance in his third win of the campaign. "He is the definition of what it means to be a Blade, and having him in the stands and being able to see him was really heartwarming for us."

The night culminated with a remarkable gesture of respect and appreciation by every player on the ice - including their most heated rivals.

Both teams skated towards the location Bobby was sitting, gathered together inside the Blades end, and raised their sticks as one in salute.

"A real classy move by the Prince Albert Raiders, their staff and their players, to come over and salute Bobby," continued Love. "Everybody knows here what he means to our organization and our community. To get a win on top of that and give him the game puck when Caiden Daley brought it over to him, that was very special for our group, and a very special moment for him and his family for sure."

Caiden Daley, one of three alternate captains on the team, wasted no time in giving Bobby something to cheer about, notching the game's first goal less than four minutes in.

Although the Raiders tied the game late in the first period, Tristen Robins helped seal the victory for Bobby, setting up the game-winner and insurance marker to earn the game's first star.

"I've only been here for two years at the SaskTel Centre facility, and I've seen Bobby around," said Robins, who's also an alternate captain this season. "He's always got a smile on his face and is always there to lighten up the mood and to talk if you need to talk.

"It was great to see him out there and we're happy we got that win for him."

This season, the Blades are wearing an important piece of Bobby every time they step onto the ice. On the back of every player's helmet, you'll see the letters "BK" woven into a purple cancer ribbon. This logo is also embroidered on the team's apparel, and has also been made into special pins for coaches and staff to wear.

Check out the Saskatoon Blades Statistics



Western Hockey League Stories from March 20, 2021


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