THUNDER BAY -- Carter Hutton has some big shoes to fill this summer.
Not only does he have a new hockey home in St. Louis, but he’s also taken on the role as host of the Hometown Heroes golf tournament in support of the George Jeffrey Children’s Centre.
On Wednesday the Blues fourth-year goaltender enlisted the help of new teammate and long-time friend Robert Bortuzzo and Stanley Cup-winning goaltender Matt Murray at a Family Fun Fair to kick off three days of festivities to help raise both money and awareness for the south-side centre that helps children with all manners of disabilities.
“Last year Patrick had me out and I kind of got a taste for the whole George Jeffrey situation and the way the foundation runs. With Patrick not coming back, I was thrilled to jump on board and help out,” Hutton said.
“Tonight’s a great night, seeing all the kids and being able to come out, so I’m looking forward to the next couple of days.”
Wednesday’s event was a chance for clients of the centre to mingle with the three NHLers, collect autographs and enjoy an afternoon of play on the bouncy castle or take a train ride around the parking lot.
George Jeffrey Children’s Foundation executive director Mary Anne Comuzzi said the golf tournament is one of the centre’s largest fundraisers each year, and once again it’s sold out.
“We’ve got a full course. Everything is ready to go. It’s going to be a gorgeous day. This is one of our biggest events, and it’s the launch of the (newly named) Hometown Heroes golf tournament, hosted by Carter Hutton,” Comuzzi said.
“Carter is a great ambassador for this community. We’re very fortunate to have him involved with George Jeffrey Children’s Centre and we’re just honoured he’s take us on this year.”
