The Perth & District Community Centre was full to the rafters as the Perth Blue Wings Alumni hosted the Montreal Canadien Alumni for a fun game of hockey and great memories.  Fans began lining up outside the arena at 1:30 anxiously awaiting the schedule 2pm opening of the doors.  Ticket holders filled the arena and waited anxiously to see their favourite Montreal Canadiens Stars.  (More Photos)

A brief warm-15 minute warm-up gave fans a taste of what was to come.  Just before 3pm the introductions began with the Perth Blue Wing Alumni team, Montreal Canadiens Alumni team and 6 of the Perth Blue Wings most senior players from the 1952-53 Season.  A short video tribute to the Perth Blue Wings Alumni and then the ceremonial puck drop. 

Local country sensation Brea Lawrenson proudly sang a beautiful O'Canada in French and English to huge cheers from the fans.

As the game progressed the Perth Blue Wings fell behind 6-3 until 5 minutes left in the Second Period when they hit the bench and the reinforcements came on the ice.  Ten young Perth/Lanark Minor Hockey Players hit the ice to do a quick stretch and take on the Montreal Canadiens Alumni players.  Through cheers and laughter the young players were able to score two goals.  One young player, Jacob Howard, dropped the gloves with Montreal's Gilbert Delorme to another roar of the crowd.

With lots of photos, cheers and memories the fans gave the Canadiens a loud send-off as they headed to Code's Mill on the Park for a special VIP Meet & Greet Buffet Dinner.  After a delicious meal, the Canadiens gave the VIP fans lots of autographs and photos.  A short speech by Chris Nilan thanking everyone for a great night and the team were on their way back to Montreal.

A very heartfelt thank you the Montreal Canadiens Alumni and staff and to the Perth Blue Wings Alumni players, staff and volunteers and most of all to our fans who came and supported this amazing event in our Town. 

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