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Regina Pats, WHL Mourn Passing of Brad Hornung

February 9, 2022 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Regina Pats News Release


Regina, Sask. - The Regina Pats Hockey Club and Western Hockey League are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Pats forward Brad Hornung.

Hornung passed away on Tuesday evening at the age of 52 following a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Joining Brad with love and support in his final moments were his mother Terry, sister Leanne and family friend and former coach Doug Sauter.

"This is a sad day for the hockey world, the WHL, the Regina Pats and the Hornung family," Regina Pats Vice-President of Hockey Operations, Head Coach and General Manager John Paddock said. "Brad set an example that was passed on to him by his dad and family that we as Regina Pats look to emulate.

"As a promising young player, Brad was dealt a difficult hand that stopped his playing career but did not stop his life and all that he accomplished, which included earning a degree, becoming an NHL scout, remaining a faithful fan and having his number 8 retired. More importantly, he was encouraging and an inspiration to all who crossed paths with him. Brad lived his life to the fullest and was such a loyal man. Forever a Regina Pat; Rest in Peace, Brad."

Hornung, a native of Regina, Sask., played two seasons with the Regina Pats, from 1985-87. On March 1, 1987, Hornung's playing career came to a premature end when he suffered a severe spinal cord injury following an on-ice collision, rendering him a quadriplegic.

"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," commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. "Brad will always have a special place in our hearts, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time."

Though his playing days came to an end, Hornung remained close to the game of hockey, serving as a scout for many years, including stints with the Chicago Blackhawks and the NHL's Central Scouting Service. He remained a fixture at the Brandt Centre, where his No. 8 hangs from the rafters, supporting the Pats through thick and through thin as a loyal supporter at nearly every home game.

In April 1988, the WHL restructured its awards format, including the introduction of 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. The WHL had previously presented an award for sportsmanship dating back to 1966-67. Each year, Brad looked forward to joining the latest class of promising WHL stars at the annual WHL Awards, where he would present the Brad Hornung Trophy to the Most Sportsmanlike Player.

Despite the adversity he faced, Hornung pushed forward, completing his high school education before eventually pursuing and receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Campion College at the University of Regina in 1996. He continued to prioritize ongoing education at the University of Regina and was recognized for his courage and perseverance with an honourary Doctor of Laws degree on June 8, 2018.

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