The hockey community in Williams Lake recently assembled to pay tribute to Lane Wiggins, a young player from the Quesnel Thunder who tragically passed away in a recent vehicular incident. The players from Quesnel, Smithers, and Williams Lake convened to conduct a special ceremony in honour of Lane, highlighting the profound impact he had on his fellow athletes and the wider hockey community.
During the poignant ceremony, which followed a tied game between the Quesnel Thunder and Smithers Storm, the players paid their respects to Lane. Chief Willie Sellars, representing the Williams Lake First Nations, expressed the significance of the event in uniting the hockey community during a time of sorrow, emphasizing the importance of the sport in promoting overall health and wellness.
Mike Rispin, the president of Williams Lake Minor Hockey, likewise shared heartfelt memories of Lane, portraying him as a cherished member of the Quesnel Thunder hockey family. Lane’s dedication to hockey, as well as his fondness for outdoor activities such as mountain biking, fishing, and hunting, left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Rispin underscored Lane’s vivacious spirit and zest for life, which served as an inspiration to those around him.
Despite the profound loss, the Wiggins family has been deeply touched by the flood of support and condolences from individuals across various communities. This illustrates the profound impact that Lane’s presence had on those around him, extending well beyond the hockey rink.
The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the unity and spirit of camaraderie that exists within the hockey community, particularly during times of adversity. It was a heartening occasion that brought together both players and supporters, underscoring the strong bonds formed through a shared love for the sport.
As the community continues to grieve the loss of Lane, there will be an upcoming opportunity for everyone to demonstrate their support for the family and the Quesnel Thunder. The game on Saturday morning, where the Quesnel Thunder will face Williams Lake, presents a chance for the community to come together once more and demonstrate its solidarity.
The impact of Lane’s presence in the lives of those around him has been profound, and the ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy he leaves behind. The outpouring of love and support from the wider hockey community has truly been heartwarming and is a testament to the positive influence Lane had on his fellow players and all those who knew him.
While the loss of Lane has undoubtedly left a deep void, the ceremony served as a beautiful tribute to his memory and the lasting impact he had on the hockey community. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the community, and the enduring spirit of Lane Wiggins, whose presence will undoubtedly continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.