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.

Matt Ryan misses the sense of community that he felt during his time in Guelph. “I loved playing here because everyone was so close-knit, it was just such a great place to play hockey,” he said.

Ryan, who played for the Augsburg Panthers in the DEL last season was excited to be back in Guelph to see old friends and teammates. “It’s tough sometimes to keep up with everyone when they go their separate ways. That’s why it’s so great that the Storm is bringing us all back here together.”

During his time with the Storm he was named Assistant Captain for the 2003-04 season during which he set career highs in goals, assists, points and penalty minutes.

In 116 games with the Storm he racked up 102 points.

When asked what his favourite memory of his time here was he doesn’t hesitate: “Winning the OHL Championship in 03-04. We had a great time and we worked really hard that year.”

Ryan notes that his time with Guelph helped him to mature. “Those are vital years and they helped us to become good, all-around people. They really pushed us to succeed.”

“I really can’t sum it all up, the organization helped shape me into the man I wanted to be.”

Ryan’s advice to younger hockey players is to always work hard and continue to believe in yourself.