January 17, 2024 – 7:00 am

Former Canadians entertain Beloeil

By: Denis Belanger

On the sporting level, the Anciens Canadiens made short work of the local team's players and won 11 to 5. But everyone present in the amphitheater had fun. “We really do this for fun. We want to give people a good show. We are looking forward to welcoming the people,” explained Yvon Lambert, who served as the alumni’s head coach.

Lambert was particularly curious about the quality of skating by young retiree Paul Byron, who officially retired last September. “I haven’t seen him play yet,” added Yvon Lambert shortly before the game started.

Paul Byron received no lecture from his coach, if we rely on the words of former New York Islanders member André St-Laurent, who was sitting on the bench of the local team. “We see his great talent and that he is a National Hockey League player. »

A total of ten alumni took to the ice rink on Friday, including Francis Bouillon, who was also honorary president of the tournament in 2016. “It is that Fun to come back here because it brings back good memories. It's really a great tournament, my twins also took part in it. »

Despite the final score, the home team players also enjoyed their experience. “The elders did a lot of what they wanted with us on the ice, but they're not bad sharp. Everyone is having fun. The nervousness definitely had an effect on us. “We were able to make the plays we wanted while playing in front of a huge crowd,” admitted home team co-captain and one of the masterminds of the event, Frédéric Brisson.

The former Canadiens welcomed two local recruits into their locker room, Patrick Guy and Shawn Roch, who paid financial compensation for the experience. They also had the privilege of keeping their game jerseys. “We felt like kids in a candy store. It is an experience we will never forget,” said Patrick Guy. “Strangely enough, the guys were calmer than we thought,” Shawn Roch said The regional eye.

Despite their talent, the elders did not hesitate to make small deviations from the rules. For example, the tournament's honorary president, Mathieu Dandenault, threw his glove onto the ice to slow down a move by the opposing team. During breaks, the elders exchanged games of skill with young ice hockey newcomers selected for the occasion. With beaming eyes, the young people answered in unison: “It was so cool” and “great” to be able to be on the ice with the older ones.

Throughout the evening, the former Canadiens signed numerous autographs and had their photos taken with many fans. Plus the mascot Youppi! was there to entertain the audience.

The Old Canadiens had to make a last-minute change. Pierre Dagenais, who played for the Habs in the 2000s, was unable to attend. He was replaced by Jesse Belanger, a forward who was part of the Canadiens' last Stanley Cup victory in 1993.

Successful evening

The other mastermind of the evening, organizer Stéphane Daigneault, did not hesitate to describe the event as a complete success. “The players are generous to spectators and volunteers. We couldn't ask for anything better. There was some stress before the start because we want the experience to be perfect for everyone. The mission is accomplished. »

The president of the tournament's organizing committee, Yves Rousseau, made similar comments. “I am really happy with my two friends Frédéric and Stéphane. There was a nice atmosphere. The camaraderie was there. The young people had fun. The new players loved being around the old ones. It was also nice to see that the players took the time to sign autographs. »

The game was notably used to raise $9,060 to fund the M15 tournament.

The 40th edition of the tournament ends on Sunday with the presentation of the finals of the competing categories. Let's add that Friday evening is marked by the hosting of the two traditional All-Star games.

A conquered mayor

The mayor of Beloeil, Nadine Viau, was invited to take part in the ceremonial puck drop before the game and in particular reiterated her intention to provide new ice to her area. “It is extraordinary to see this event. This makes me even more interested in working on creating a new arena that can accommodate two flavors of ice cream. »

Ms Viau also used the opportunity to highlight the tournament's contribution to the community. “I am very proud of this event, which is taking place for the 40th time. Forty years is not nothing and mobilizes so many volunteers. »

Check out our photos from the game on page 30.