Kirsty Budd, Guelph Storm Staff

GuelphStorm.com had a chance to interview the alumni that attended the Storm’s alumni weekend on June  11 and 12. Thirty-six former players, including 10 who do or did skate in the NHL at one point, took part in the game. Several other alumni also watched the game from behind the bench. The weekend also included a BBQ and alumni-only banquet.  The proceeds from the game went to several local charities, including the Guelph Wish Fund for Children.

Andrew Long will always remember his time in Guelph for the life-long friendships and connections he made.

“Seeing the guys on an everyday basis really creates camaraderie, a brotherhood and I definitely miss that,” he said. “The whole city was great. I take a lot of pride in being a part of the Guelph Storm organization.”

Long was drafted by the Storm in the second round of the 1994 OHL Priority Selection Draft. During his four seasons with the Storm Andrew racked up 140 points and 48 goals.

One of Long’s favourite memories of his time in Storm City was winning the OHL Championship. “It was my last year with the Storm, which made it even more special,” he noted.

Long added that he matured a lot during his time in Guelph, “I would recommend Guelph and junior hockey 100 per cent. It’s not just about hockey, it’s about personal development.”

Long was drafted by the Florida Panthers in the fifth round (129th overall) of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft.

After graduating from Junior, he played for New Haven (AHL), Miami (ECHL), Port Huron (UHL), Louisville (AHL), Talahassee (ECHL), Hamilton (AHL), Florida (ECHL), Columbus (ECHL), Kalamazoo (UHL) and Missouri (UHL).