The Prince Albert Raiders retired Dave Manson’s number as part of a weekend celebration honouring the Saskatchewan hockey legend. Before Friday’s game the team raised his banner to the rafters as part of a special ceremony.
WHL commissioner Ron Robison presented Manson with the WHL Alumni Achievement Award, while the Raiders gave him a silver hockey stick commemorating his career of over 1,000 games in the NHL.
During the pre-game warm-up, the team wore retro jerseys featuring the classic Raiders logo and Manson’s name with the No. 4 on the back. The Raiders went on to win Friday’s match 3-2 against the Regina Pats.
Manson, 49, is the second player in Raiders franchise history to have his number retired at Art Hauser Centre, joining Mike Modano.
Considered one of the greatest and toughest players in franchise history, Manson played three seasons with Prince Albert from 1983-86 and was part of the team’s 1985 Memorial Cup championship.
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The Chicago Blackhawks selected the defenseman 11th overall in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft. Manson quickly established himself as one of the most punishing players in the league, earning the nickname “Charlie” and collecting 2,792 penalty minutes.
He played 1,103 games in the NHL over 16 seasons with the Blackhawks, Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, Phoenix Coyotes, Montreal Canadiens, Dallas Stars and Toronto Maple Leafs. Manson recorded 390 points and was twice named to the NHL All-Star Game.
After retiring from the NHL, Manson rejoined his hometown team. He’s currently in his twelfth season behind the Raider’s bench as assistant coach.
“Dave Manson Weekend,” as proclaimed by Prince Albert Mayor Greg Dionne, also included a roast in front of a sold out audience at the Ches Leach Lounge Saturday.
His son, Josh, plays for the Anaheim Ducks in the NHL.
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