He’s an NHL superstar and role model to all Cariboo hockey players and fans.
A chainsaw carving of Carey Price titled “The Goalie” was unveiled yesterday afternoon (Thursday) just outside the Williams Lake Mustangs dressing room in the arena lobby of the Cariboo Memorial Complex.
The carving depicts the Montreal Canadiens goalie with his glove-hand outstretched for a puck that was gifted to the City of Williams Lake by the District of Chetwynd.
Williams Lake First Nation Chief Willie Sellars was one of the many dignitaries in attendance.
“What Carey has been able to do over the course of his career playing a game that we love, Canadians love, inspired generations of our youth, not just non-Indigenous youth but Indigenous youth to pick up this sport and strive for that piece of excellence. We play hockey because we love it, because it brings us together in a good way and he did it at a level that is really representative of what we all dream of and that is really something.”
Carey’s parents, Lynda and Jerry Price were on hand to help with the unveiling of their son’s carving.
His father said it was an awesome place to have it here at the rink outside of the dressing room where everybody can see it.
“I was speaking to Carey a lot over the last few days about his thoughts on it and what he would like me to say, how he viewed it all. Carey being Carey he was a little bit embarrassed about having the attention put on him like this but on the other he is so thankful to have his roots here in Williams Lake and the Cariboo-Chilcotin. Being able to play hockey with so many great guys here, know so many great people that have helped make him the person that he is.”
Jerry Price add this is home for Carey and that will never change.
Board Chair Margo was also there representing the Cariboo Regional District.
“I think this will be a popular place for young players to come and have their picture taken standing next to a chainsaw carving of Carey Price. I think it will become like the Wayne Gretzky one in Edmonton.”
Wagner also thanked the District of Chetwynd Mayor Alan Courtorielle for all the work he had done to bring the statue here and that the whole entire CRD Board is ecstatic to have it here in Williams Lake.
The District of Chetwynd gifts carvings to other communities and key areas such as airports in recognition of partnerships and to encourage the spirit of working together.
“The Goalie” carving was created by artist Jeffery Samudosky of JMS Wood Sculpture.
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