When I first heard that several legendary NHL Alumni were making a pre All Star game appearance at a bar, TJ's, only a couple miles from my house, I was pretty excited. Later, when I heard they wouldn't be doing autographs, my interest waned a bit. However, I still figured it was worth taking the half day off of work just to get a chance to meet and greet some hockey legends.
Boy did I make the right decision. The event was much more than I expected. Fortunately, we arrived early enough to get ourselves some good seats, grab some grub and a beer and await their arrival. It wasn't long before the players started filtering in.
Among the former players in attendance were Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsey, Bobby Hull, Dave Schultz, Frank Mahovlich, Johnny Bower, Clark Gillies, Rob Ray, Scott Mellanby, Tony Esposito, Willi Plett, Eric Vail, Kurt Walker, Bob Clarke, Jason Zent, Mark Napier, Tim Ecclestone (owner of the bar), Colin Patterson and Scott Pearson.
Things quickly got out of hand as people ignored the "no autographs" guidelines and showed no shame it going after what they "had to have". To their credit, many of the players were very accomodating, signing despite the warnings. We laid back and waited for the masses to depart and kindly approached a few who were more than willing to sign an item, take a photo or even have a short discussion. Bobby Hull must get special mention as he spent in inordinate amount of time signing and talking to everyone who wanted to.
The main reason the players were there was to announce their new non-profit wine. They did a nice photo op for it and I got several nice pics. However, the highlight for me had to be the giveaways. I was lucky enough to be chosen for one of the autographed jerseys they gave away. A true treat with so many hall of famer autographs on a piece of memorabilia. It didn't take long for a couple of guests to try buying it off my back. No sale for this fan. This event will be the only time I wear the jersey as a frame is order as I type.
The following are some of the better pictures from this event.
Clarke Gilles treated guests who remained for the duration by singing "The Gambler".
