Arena in Garson renamed in honour of hockey legend George Armstrong

The arena in Garson has a new name, in honour of George Armstrong, the former captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs who grew up in the area.

On Thursday, family, friends and some former players helped cut the ribbon at what will now be known as the George Armstrong Community Centre and Arena.

The Hall of Famer, who passed away in 2021, was born in Bowland’s Bay near Skead.

Armstrong played 21 seasons in the NHL, all with the Leafs, helping them win four Stanley Cups, including the last one in 1967.

He was also one of the first Indigenous players to play in the NHL.

Some of his children, grandchildren and extended family were at the arena on Church Street for the renaming ceremony.

They said they think he would be humbled by the honour.

"We were so very proud of dad and all of his accomplishments," said Brian Armstrong, George’s son.

"I know that he would be somewhat embarrassed by this, because that’s the type of person he was. But at the same time, we find out ourselves all the time how well respected he was, because, of course, during his playing career we were pretty young."

New signs have been installed outside of the arena and there is a mural just inside the doors with several pictures of Armstrong during his hockey career.

The naming request was made by the Nickel Centre Minor Hockey Association, and it was unanimously approved by city council.

The three Leafs alum were on hand for the ribbon cutting -- Darryl Sittler, Wendel Clark and Rick Vaive. They will be playing in the annual Celebrity Hockey Classic for Easter Seals on Friday at Countryside Arena.

Then they’ll be at the OHL game between the Sudbury Wolves and the Sarnia Sting Friday evening.