Former Edmonton Oiler Ryan Smyth laces up with local men’s senior league

EDMONTON- When Ryan Smyth committed to playing with the Stony Plain Eagles senior men’s AAA team last week, he openly admitted he wasn’t sure when he’d be ready for a game.

Jump ahead just three days to this weekend, when Smyth hit the ice on Saturday night and just eight minutes into the game fans got to see a vintage Ryan Smyth goal.

“Obviously the pace is really high, and it’s great– good young players,” said Smyth. “You know my brother has played in the senior league for a number of years and said how intense it was so to get a taste of it, being on the ice with these guys is special for me.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Obviously the pace is really high, and it's great- good young players," said Smyth. "You know my brother has played in the senior league for a number of years and said how intense it was so to get a taste of it, being on the ice with these guys is special for me."

Smyth’s brother Jared played with the Bentley Generals and Kevin is currently an Assistant Coach with the Innisfail Eagles.

“I’m just having fun, that’s what this is about,” said Smyth.

Smyth retired from the NHL after the 2013-14 season. He’s now looking to help the Stony Plain Eagles push for the Allan Cup.

“We all saw him play when he was with the Oilers, so you know– it’s just come (out) and be the same player he always was,” said Eagles Head Coach Mike Tavaroli. “He played hard, he played the right way and he’s got a passion for hockey. I think if that passion becomes infectious to the whole team it’s just going to make us that much better.”

The Eagles take on the Bentley Generals on Friday night.