Carey Price’s inspiring message resonates with First Nations youth

WATCH: Montreal’s First Nations community reacts after hearing Montreal Canadiens’ Carey Price give an emotional speech encouraging youth to reach for the stars. Global’s Sarah Volstad reports.

KAHNAWAKE – If there was ever any doubt that Montreal Canadiens goalie Carey Price was among the best in the league, it disappeared Wednesday night.

Price walked away from the NHL Awards with not one, not two, but four trophies.

Among them: the Hart Trophy for the most valuable player and the Vezina Trophy for the best goalie.

READ MORE: Hat Trick: Carey Price wins Hart, Vezina, Lindsay honors at NHL Awards

But beyond his talent, it’s what he said in one of his acceptance speeches that had people talking.

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“I made it here because I wasn’t discouraged. I worked hard to get here, took advantage of every opportunity that I had,” said Price before some of the most accomplished people in professional hockey.

“I would really like to encourage First Nations youth to be leaders in their communities. Be proud of your heritage and don’t be discouraged from the improbable.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I would really like to encourage First Nations youth to be leaders in their communities. Be proud of your heritage and don't be discouraged from the improbable."

The 27-year-old Habs player gave a message of encouragement that’s resonating with First Nations communities everywhere.

READ MORE: Canadiens’ Carey Price wins Vezina Trophy; gives emotional speech on First Nations youth

“Carey Price is respected throughout the hockey world and especially among First Nations kids,” said Joe Delaronde of the Kahnawake Band Council.

“We know who he is. He doesn’t always go around waving the big Indian flag, but we know who he is.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "We know who he is. He doesn't always go around waving the big Indian flag, but we know who he is."

Price grew up in the small B.C. community of Anahim Lake.

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His mother, former chief of the Ulkatcho, was the first woman to be elected in the First Nations of British Columbia.

“I think Carey Price had a strong message to First Nations youth about keep your dreams alive,” said Stu Cowan, Sports Editor for the Montreal Gazette.

Price certainly didn’t hesitate to let his pride for his aboriginal heritage shined through on Wednesday night.