Gary Roberts

Gary Roberts was a Stanley Cup champion with the Calgary Flames in 1989 and a Memorial Cup champion with the Guelph Platers in 1986.

Born in North York, Ontario in 1966, his family moved to Whitby where he attended Palmerston Public School, Whitby Senior Public School, and Henry Street High School before going to Canterbury High School in Ottawa. Gary played all of his minor hockey in Whitby; many years under the coaching of Benny LaHaye who had a huge influence on Gary and others both as players and as people.

Gary played his junior hockey with the Ottawa 67’s and Guelph Platers before embarking on his National Hockey League career. He represented Canada at the World Junior Championships during the 1985-86 season. As a first round pick of the Calgary Flames in 1984 (12th overall), Gary had a stellar career in the National Hockey League spanning 21 seasons.

Gary was able to overcome a serious neck injury at the midpoint of his career. He endured two operations and months of nerve regeneration and extensive rehab training. His determination and desire to return to the NHL was rewarded and he was able to extend his NHL career another 12 seasons.

In 1997-98 Gary moved to Carolina to play for the Hurricanes for 3 seasons, followed by productive campaigns with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Pittsburgh Penguins and Florida Panthers. His NHL career closed with the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2008-2009 season. In 1224 NHL games Gary collected 438 goals and 471 assists for 910 points while amassing 2560 penalty minutes.

Selected to play in the NHL All-Star game on three occasions Gary was also honoured by NHL voters in 1996 with the Bill Masterton Trophy given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.

Gary is married to Michelle and has three children: daughter Jordan, and sons Noah and Sam. He currently resides in Uxbridge and enjoys spending time with his family, working out and golfing.