A Toronto-based fashion personality hailing from Canada.
In the heart of Saint-Laurent, a statue stands tall in Place Vertu, a frequent stop for a young individual growing up. The statue is of Ken Dryden, a name synonymous with hockey greatness in Canada.
Ken Dryden, known for standing with his arms crossed on his stick handle, an iconic image, was more than just a hockey legend. He was an exceptional athlete, a devoted politician, and an exceptional person. These words echo the sentiments of Alex Vincent, a testament to Dryden's multifaceted personality.
Dryden's influence extended beyond the hockey rink. Stéphane Conant, inspired by Dryden's pursuit of a law degree at McGill University, followed in his footsteps, learning a second language in the process. Gilles Lavoie, a fellow McGill student in 1971, fondly remembers sharing lecture notes with the hockey star.
For many, Dryden represents a significant part of their childhood. For Megan Foy, he was her hero, inspiring her to grow as tall as him. For Martine Parent, he embodies her adolescence, as her father was a big fan. For Caroline Sardi, a chance encounter in an elevator in the 1970s left an indelible mark, with Dryden recognising and hugging her.
Dryden's kindness was not confined to the ice. Carol McConnery, who got married during the series of the century, recalls Dryden's accessibility. He agreed to a photo with her, explaining that he wanted to impress her son, who was a goaltender. Gaétane Huot, who met Dryden at the launch of his book Scotty, found him to be kind to everyone who wanted his autograph.
One of Dryden's most memorable moments came in 1971, when he made a save with his right leg pad against Jim Pappin of the Chicago Black Hawks. The gesture, along with the gesture of the Dryden brothers shaking hands before games, demonstrated that hockey is a game above all, even in a rough and physical era, as Claude Girard poignantly notes.
Lastly, Dryden's impact on Canada went beyond hockey and academia. He represented the city of York Centre in the Canadian federal government as a minister, leaving a lasting legacy in Canadian politics as well.
Ken Dryden, a name that evokes memories of a bygone era, continues to inspire and captivate, a testament to his enduring legacy.
