Mayor Chris Goertzen to proclaim Friday, April 17th as “Ian White Day”
Mayor Chris Goertzen will proclaim Friday, April 17th “Ian White Day” in honour of the Steinbach native who now plays in the NHL. The official proclamation will take place on Friday, April 17th, 9:00am in the foyer at City Hall, 225 Reimer Avenue.
“My family and I are thrilled and honoured to be receiving this recognition from the community!” said White.
White, a defenceman for the Toronto Maple Leafs, is quickly making a name for himself in the hockey world. He played minor hockey in Steinbach, and for the Eastman Selects, then the Swift Current Broncos in the WHL. White was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 6th round (191st overall) in 2002 and signed a pro-contract with them. He has completed his third season in the NHL and more recently, been listed on Canada’s roster for the 2009 World Hockey Championship.
In the past, White represented Canada at the World Junior Championships, winning a silver medal in 2003, and also played in the Spengler Cup in 2007, winning a silver medal for Canada.
“Ian White is an inspiration to many young athletes in our city,” said Mayor Chris Goertzen. “He is a great example of one of our own who has overcome great obstacles to achieve excellence on the national stage. Steinbach can be proud of Ian White and his tremendous accomplishments.”
The Professional Hockey Writers Association has chosen White as the Maple Leaf nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy. This award is given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. The winner will be announced in June at the NHL awards night in Las Vegas.
Off the ice, Ian continues to make a difference with his charity called “Ian White’s Heroes” – a charity that provides disadvantaged children the opportunity to attend Leaf games.
At the Allan Cup game on Friday, April 17th, special tribute will be paid to White. Bob Smith, a past minor hockey coach of White’s, will be the master of ceremonies. White’s family will be on the ice with him while Deputy Mayor Elbert Toews and Steinbach Minor Hockey President, Weldon Plett, say a few words, followed by a presentation by the Minor Hockey Association.
Three items recognizing White’s achievements will be unveiled at Friday night’s game – a framed Maple Leaf jersey, a Canada World Junior jersey, and a framed photo collage recognizing the World Junior experience. After unveiling, the items will be placed in the lobby of the T.G. Smith Centre for all to enjoy. White will perform the ceremonial puck drop to start the Allan Cup game on Friday night.
