The Voice of Sport: Bryan Helmer, The Voice of Sport, and the Calder Cup!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Bryan Helmer, The Voice of Sport, and the Calder Cup!

Through my work as a sports columnist, I have been very blessed to speak with some wonderful folks in the sports world. The first time I interviewed AHL veteran Bryan Helmer, I was immediately struck by his passion for the game of hockey and his dedication to his family and friends. As I have gotten to know him through our telephone conversations and emails, I have realized that there are still role models in the world of sports - and Bryan is certainly at the top of the list!

When he mentioned he would be bringing the Calder Cup to his favourite pizza restaurant in Chesterville, Ontario, which is close to my home in Ottawa, I asked if it would be ok to drop by and take some pictures for TVOS. Bryan displayed his generosity yet again and off we went... Along with my wife and ED, my good friend and Editor at The Voice of Sport, we hit the road for Chesterville.

Expecting a large public event, I was in full “reporter mode” - but to my surprise, the party with the Calder Cup had occurred the night before and Bryan had invited us to a special dinner with the Helmer family. Sitting down to enjoy a meal with Bryan and his family is an evening that I will never forget. As we shared stories and enjoyed some great food at Louis’ Restaurant, part of hockey history sat next to us - the Calder Cup!!

Bryan arrives with the Calder Cup!
Photo by Dianne Rodger (Mrs. TVOS)

A huge THANK YOU to Bryan, his wife Pam, and the Helmer family, for allowing us to join them on such a special evening. It was a once in a lifetime experience for me, and to be able to share in Bryan’s special day with the Calder Cup is a memory I will cherish forever!!