THUNDER BAY -- A prestigious honour was bestowed upon long time coach and mentor Bill Nicholson by Hockey Canada on Wednesday at Grandview Arena.
He was surprised by family, friends and fans - young and old.
A Hockey Canada representative was sent to Thunder Bay to award Nicholson with a commemorative Hockey Canada jersey and name him an official Hockey Ambassador. It's the first time someone from Northwestern Ontario has recieved the title.
Through his efforts and management more than 2,000 local children have benefited from Bill’s tutelage over the years. Nicholson started the Port Arthur Minor Hockey Association's IP program back in 2004, retiring from the position just last year. However Bill still freely gives his time to this day. The program and curriculum is based on the Hockey Canada Initiation Program.
It is his dedication to the community and love of the game that compelled Hockey Canada to recognize him as an Ambassador of the sport.
