East Gwillimbury hockey star Sam Bennett got his start playing at his local hockey rink, like many NHL players.
The Holland Landing native started his hockey journey at the East Gwillimbury Sports Complex, playing with the East Gwillimbury Minor Hockey Association, and ultimately joining the Florida Panthers.
After a decades-long journey, he returned today with hockey’s ultimate prize: the Stanley Cup.
“It’s really incredible to be back here, right at the rink where I learned to play,” Bennett said to the hundreds of fans who came to see him and the Stanley Cup. “If you ever have any doubt, not think it’s possible, I’m here to tell you that it is possible.”
At the celebration hosted by the municipality and East Gwillimbury Minor Hockey Association, organizers handled a massive lineup of people looking for a chance to get their photo taken with the Stanley Cup.
Bennett took his turn to bring the cup home today, after the Florida Panthers emerged victorious against the Edmonton Oilers, with Newmarket’s Connor McDavid taking the loss. The day with the Stanley Cup is a tradition enjoyed by the players for the championship team each year.
Dignitaries congratulated Bennett, with East Gwillimbury Mayor Virginia Hackson saying he is a local inspiration.
“We are very proud of you and excited to celebrate this monumental achievement,” Hackson said.
People came from near and far to get a close-up look at the Stanley Cup and Bennett. Newmarket resident Ian Johnston made the trek and said he had seen Bennett play as a young hockey star.
“I’m proud of him. I’m glad to see him accomplish the goal,” Johnston said. “If you’re a hockey person in a hockey community, you’re ecstatic about what the possibilities are and the example for the younger kids growing up.”
Other dignitaries and representatives also attended and spoke at the event, with some jokes thrown in.
"All the kids that lace up their skates dream of this," York-Simcoe MP Scot Davidson said, adding he also had a contract for the hockey star. "We're trying to get, somehow, some movement with the Toronto Maple Leafs ... the Leafs need you, buddy."
East Gwillimbury Minor Hockey Association director of operations Jen Mackey said Bennett is inspirational to young hockey players in the community.
“To show that he was a tyke here and one day, maybe they can be a Stanley Cup champion, too,” she said. “It’s amazing that this many people came out to celebrate his accomplishment.”
Tim Mahony brought his son to the event.
“My son, Chase, grew up as an (East Gwillimbury) Eagle and he’s making his way up now and it’s cool to see that anything’s possible,” Mahony said.
Bennett reflected on previously being in the same position as the many young hockey players in the crowd.
“If you love the game enough, you’re gonna work hard enough. If you work hard enough, you’re gonna get an opportunity. One day, hopefully, you bring the Stanley Cup back to your hometown.”
