Hockey fan Deidre Fennell officially has the best seat in the house after an unexpected and heartwarming surprise from the Cochrane Generals.
Before the last home game of the season on Saturday night, Fennell – a longtime and loyal supporter of the Heritage Junior Hockey League team – got comfortable in her blue theatre-style chair at the top of the bleachers, just off the centre line in Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre’s main arena, where she always sits with her family.
Nothing seemed unusual as the Gens and the High River Flyers took to the ice – until a special announcement came over the loud speaker.
“Would Dee stand up and go behind your seat,” said game broadcaster TKTK.
Fennell admitted she had “no idea what was going on” – but faithfully stood. As she did, Generals players Brandon Aab, Joey Stendland, Thane Kondrat and Will Gretton appeared beside her.
“If you could remove the paper from the back,” the announcer said.
Fennell complied and peeled off a dark covering from the back of her chair. She gasped as she revealed a plaque, placed there in her honour, emblazoned with “Reserved” and “Generals #1 Fan.”
“Look at how beautiful it is,” said Fennell, wiping tears from her eyes. “I love it. I don’t even know what to say. There are no words that I can even describe it. I’m … in shock.”
Manager Jacquie Thrussell said Generals’ forward Connor Rendell – one of Fennell’s favourite players – created the plaque with the help of his employer, Signorama. He and teammate Corey Goeson hung up the heirloom on Thursday night.
Signorama also printed a second souvenir nameplate for Fennell to hang at home with her other Generals’ memorabilia, including a signed stick and jersey.
Fennell said she was humbled by the recognition and will make good use of her official seat as the HJHL playoffs begin in a little more than a week.
“I’m so proud of them,” she said of her team. “All of them.”
