BREAKING: Toronto Maple Leafs alumni passes away at the age of 86

Unfortunately, today we are mourning the loss of yet another member of our hockey family.

For millions of aspiring hockey players, making it to the National Hockey League is the ultimate dream. It's an incredible achievement that only a few can boast of accomplishing. However, when a player born in the same city as the team they play for gets the opportunity to don the same jersey, it becomes a momentous event that they cherish forever.

Ken Girard was one such player who realized this dream. Though he was never drafted, he played in the highly competitive Ontario Hockey Association (OHA) for the Toronto Marlboros. Girard received "the call" to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs on three separate occasions, and each time it was a surreal experience that he will never forget.




The feeling of representing his hometown team and playing in front of his family and friends is something that he and many others will remember forever.

Today, as we bid farewell to Ken Giard, we remember him as a symbol of perseverance and hard work. Despite facing numerous obstacles, he pursued his passion for hockey and made a name for himself in the sport. His legacy will inspire future generations of players to chase their dreams and strive for greatness, both on and off the ice.

We are saddened to learn of the passing of Toronto native, Ken Girard.

Our thoughts and condolences are with Ken's family. pic.twitter.com/dQBqI3PBCl— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) April 3, 2023