Florida Panthers defenceman Aaron Ekblad brought the Stanley Cup home to Belle River on Saturday morning, much to the delight of thousands of fans at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre who lined up to have their photo taken with Ekblad and the trophy.
Ekblad, 28, the first overall pick by the Panthers in the 2014 NHL entry draft, has spent his career with the club.
A native of Windsor, Ekblad grew up in Belle River before moving to Barrie to play for the OHL’s Barrie Colts.
The Panthers won the Stanley Cup in June, in a thrilling seven-game series against the Edmonton Oilers.
Members of the winning team bring the cup to their home communities after the season ends.