After the tragedy that struck the Humboldt Broncos, people have been showing solidarity by putting a hockey stick out in front of their homes.
Sixteen people -- including players, coaches and radio personnel -- were killed and about 13 were injured, some critically, when a bus and semi-trailer collided Friday, April 6. The collision occurred at about 5 p.m. approximately 200 kilometres northeast of Saskatoon as the Broncos were travelling north to Nipawin for a playoff game.
The movement to place hockey sticks out picked up traction when TSN broadcaster Brian Munz shared that his friend chose to do it.
Many Olds residents have taken to following this display of solidarity like Grant Spence, who learned about the idea when watching the news.
“It’s such a huge loss. It’s a small token of our sharing the grief of the folks who are suffering now,” Spence said.
Spence still plays hockey himself and the tragic events moved him to show his support.
“I love and follow hockey so I said ‘OK, I can do this too’,” he said.
Displaying solidarity in Olds along with Spence is Jordan Fournier, who feels inspired by the Canadian spirit to show his support.
“It’s a movement made by Canadians and it makes me proud to be a Canadian,” said Fournier. “Of course I’m going to join in on the support of the Broncos.”
In addition, support can be given to a GoFundMe page for the Broncos that surpassed its initial goal of $4 million and as of April 13, was on track to reach $11 million.
