Montreal Canadiens Press Conference
Réjean Houle; Elmer Lach; Silvana Orrino; Nick Di Tomaso; Dick Irvin, Jr.
The proceeds from the retirement of Montreal Canadiens jersey #16, worn by legendary Punch Line member Elmer Lach, were donated to the foundation in a dedicated ceremony, which was held on Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010, 9:30am, at the entrance to the Windmill Cafe. A cheque in the amount of $25,000 was presented to the LGH Foundation at the ceremony.
Upon Mr. Lach’s request, the funds from his jersey number retirement were directed to the paediatrics department of the Lakeshore General Hospital.
Renowned hockey broadcaster Dick Irvin, Jr. was on hand to welcome and introduce Mr. Lach, who played on the Montreal Canadiens for 14 seasons, from 1940-1954. Also attending was Canadiens Alumni Association President Rejean Houle, on behalf of the Canadiens Children’s Foundation. Mr. Houle presented the cheque on behalf of the Montreal Canadiens.
A Hart Memorial Trophy winner, a member of the first NHL All-Star team, and a Hockey Hall-of-Famer since 1966, Mr. Lach is presently the oldest living Montreal Canadiens player. We are truly honoured to be the recipient of his generosity, and to become a part of such a celebrated sports tradition.