Richard Pettipas remembered for his contribution to P.E.I. hockey

Prince Edward Island's hockey community is remembering one of its biggest supporters by naming a tournament in his honour. 

The Richard Pettipas Memorial Para-Ice Hockey Tournament took place in Crapaud, P.E.I., this weekend.

"It's such an honour and it truly shows what type of person he was and what he did for the community," said Marissa Pettipas, Richard Pettipas's daughter. 

Richard Pettipas helped bring para hockey to P.E.I. and was one of the first to play on the Island's only team, the Ice Breakers.

Richard died on Jan. 6 at the age of 61. 

"Each year I think it's going to get a little bit easier seeing his name on that banner, but I know he's looking down on us today shining," said Marissa, who attended the final game of the tournament on Sunday. 

"I'm hopeful his legacy will show others that no matter your ability, no matter what you think you can and cannot do, you always need to try — and you can do it."

Para hockey on the Island

Ice Breakers forward Andrew Williamson said there were "feel good vibes around the rink" as the Pettipas family watched on from the stands. 

Williamson said he's been playing with the Ice Breakers for 14 months. 

"I haven't had the opportunity to meet Richard but I have had the opportunity to benefit from what he brought to the Island and even brought to the Maritime league in terms of para hockey," Williamson said. 

"His dedication to the sport was instrumental in offering opportunities to athletes such as myself."

Remembering Richard

Richard is remembered as "the life of the party" who "also had great leadership," said Ice Breakers goalie George Savoy. 

Richard served as the president of para sports P.E.I. for many years, and contributed when the first world para hockey events came to P.E.I., said Savoy. 

"He was able to help us to be who we are, and we're very grateful," Savoy said. "We wouldn't have a team without him."

With Richard's wife and daughter in attendance at the game on Sunday, Savoy said he hoped to "do a good job and show them how appreciative we are about Richard." 

The South Shore Ice Storm beat the P.E.I. Ice Breakers in the final on Sunday, and will proudly hang the banner signed by the family in Bridgewater, N.S.