As the Old Dirty Boys Hockey League (ODBHL) prepares to celebrate its storied history, the Albert County Renegades bid farewell to one of their most dedicated player. Chris Tierney, a stalwart of the Albert County farm team, the CFB Chatham Lynx, has announced his retirement after ten seasons of professional hockey. Drafted 29th overall during the inaugural ODBHL season, Tierney's career has been a testament to perseverance, leadership, and unwavering dedication.
Tierney's professional journey began with the Renegades, but it was with the CFB Chatham Lynx that he truly made his mark. Over 682 games in the farm league, Tierney amassed an impressive 236 goals, 265 assists, and 501 points, while accumulating 1170 penalty minutes. His points-per-game average of 0.73 highlights his consistent offensive contributions, making him a cornerstone of the Lynx’s lineup.
One of the defining moments of Tierney's career came in Season 4, when he led the Lynx to their first Tiger Cup championship. His leadership and clutch performances during the playoffs earned him accolades and cemented his status as a Lynx legend. Despite playing only 38 games at the professional level, Tierney's impact on the farm team and the development of young talent was immeasurable.
As the Renegades look forward to the start of Season 11, they will honor Tierney's legacy in a special ceremony during the first home game. His jersey will be officially lifted to the rafters of the Lord Beaverbrook Arena, a fitting tribute to a player who gave his all for the franchise. General Manager John Nason praised Tierney's contributions, stating, "Chris has been a vital part of our organization from the very beginning. His leadership, both on and off the ice, has left an indelible mark on our team and our community. It’s only right that we honor him in this way."
Tierney's retirement marks the end of an era for the Lynx, but he is not alone in stepping away from the ice this season. Cam Fowler, Darcy Kuemper, and Brock McGinn have also announced their retirements, closing the chapter on illustrious careers. Each of these players brought unique skills and experiences to the league, and their departures will undoubtedly be felt by their respective teams and fans.
Fowler, known for his steady presence on the blue line, leaves behind a legacy of reliability and leadership. Kuemper, a stalwart between the pipes, provided countless highlight-reel saves and stability in goal. McGinn, with his gritty play and offensive flair, was a fan favorite and a relentless competitor.
As the ODBHL community reflects on these retirements, the contributions of Chris Tierney stand out as a beacon of dedication and resilience. His journey from a late first-round pick to a beloved leader and champion with the Lynx is a story of hard work and passion for the game. As his jersey ascends to the rafters, Tierney's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.
In celebrating Tierney's career, the Albert County Renegades and the CFB Chatham Lynx not only honor a player but also the spirit of the game itself—one of commitment, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. As the new season dawns, Tierney's presence will be missed on the ice, but his impact will be felt for years to come.
6/23/2024 - 533 words
