The man known for making the most noise at Victoria Shamrocks lacrosse games was for once at a loss for words.
“For the first time in my life I’m speechless,” said Jody Rice, who was acknowledged by the team he has ardently supported with the presentation of a 2015 Mann Cup championship ring at the Shamrocks office in Langford on Tuesday.
“I am totally honoured and humbled to wear this ring. I’m so proud of this team and their commitment to the community,” he said.
Team owner Jim Hartshorne recalled many occasions when the team played at the old Memorial Arena.
Rice would chase him along the concourse, passionately suggesting trades to help the team bring home a championship.
Rice, a season ticket holder since the Shamrocks moved to Colwood in 2004, said the honour ranked right up there with him being named fan of the year in 1978 by the team his brother played for in the Triangle baseball association.
Jason Sperling, operations manager for the Shamrocks, said it was a real pleasure to give Rice the ring on behalf of the team. “He epitomizes the passion in our fans,” Sperling added.
reporter@goldstreamgazette.com