I've never seen Patrick Roy play and I probably never will now but just because he is now retired doesn't mean I would never get the chance to meet him.
Meeting Patrick Roy
Posted by on Sunday, March 21, 2004 in - 12 comments
I was not interested in hockey until I was about 11 (1991) when card collecting was at its highest. Montreal quickly became my favorite team and it just so happens that the first hockey card I ever got was from a friend on the school bus when he passed me Patrick Roy from that years Pro Set series.
Today, I still collect cards but on a much smaller scale. If they are of Patrick Roy (and anything else Roy related), I want them.
I have never been to a PEI Rocket game but when I heard they were playing the Remparts in the first round, that was a good enough reason to start. I went to see only one player and that player happens to be retired.
So Fridays game came and I spotted Roy on the bench during the warmup and then in section 16 during the game which seemed to be amazing all on its own. I decided not to be one of those people that line up at his seat and stayed where I was. After all, he was there on business and not for entertaining.
Saturday was a different story and I went prepared over an hour before the game and met Patrick Roy just outside the visiting teams dressing room. I had him sign a drawing I created of him back in 1996.
I don't know whats worse. Being one of those fans that track them down for an autograph and picture or being one of those fans that post and brag about it on their website. The shame but I'd still do it again tomorrow. (update: and I did do it again)
Comments
Cyn - March 21, 2004 8:24 pm
That's about the nicest story I've read in a long time. Good for you for having a hero.
Sylvia - March 21, 2004 10:10 pm
Hi Stephen,
Enjoyed your story on meeting Patrick Roy. It must have been a real thrill for you. Nice picture of you two. Hope you don't mind that I check out your site every once in a while.
Stephen DesRoches - March 21, 2004 11:10 pm
Don't mind at all. That's the purpose of a site like this. Instead of emailing those I think are interested, I just post it to the world.
Those interested can read when ever they have time, those not interested can ignore.
John Morris - March 22, 2004 12:06 am
I guess I will have to in and meet Mr. Roy before hockey season is over. I too was also a big fan of his.
Brad Pineau - March 22, 2004 1:03 am
That's wicked! Congrats on the autograph!
Stephen DesRoches - March 22, 2004 9:35 am
"Was" a big fan?
Mandy - March 23, 2004 1:49 am
YAY - oh I'm so glad you got to meet him. I read your post about missing him on his last regular season visit. WOOT.
I'll always remember the day he "walked out" of the Canadians hub. It was my birthday. I can still see it. I'm sad that he left, but we all need change. He's cool guy and great player.
Good for you cat.
Kelly - March 31, 2004 12:46 pm
.... and speaking of birthdays, wasn't that a nice early birthday present for you Stephen.
Happy Birthday! (today, March 31)
Josh - May 24, 2004 8:42 pm
Hello
I would never would have found this site, if it weren't for being a HUGE P.Roy fan. Just browsing all the Roy sites out there, I came across your story. Man are you lucky. I haven't had the honour myself, maybe someday. But as far as goalies go, the best there is, there was, there ever will be!
Katelin - June 23, 2004 5:42 am
yes.. It was great having Roy on the Avalanche team! too bad he retired.. now my stats hockey team isnt that good.. o well congrats on meeting him!
Kellly - February 21, 2006 3:58 pm
Hi Stephen,
I just went to a Ramparts game and saw him. I am a big Patrick Roy fan and got to meet him too plus a picture. It was great. I never got to see him play but this is just as good.
Jerry Fenton - May 28, 2006 8:36 pm
Patrick Roy is a disgrace to hockey and i would not want my son playing for him as he is a classless arrogant jerk who needs to have a reality check.If i have any Patrick Roy cards anyone that wants them is welcome to them ,after watching him at the Memorial Cup i want nothing of his as he set a very poor example to one and all and i hope i never see his face again .Remember the 11-1 game with Detroit ,patrick quit and that sums him up,a quitter and jerk.