Shawn Albert Pearson

Raiders first round pick Reid Gardiner unveiled at Art Hauser Centre

--PRINCE ALBERT-- Reid Gardiner, who was selected eighth overall in last month’s WHL Bantam Draft, was all smiles yesterday as the Raiders unveiled its new homegrown prospect.  

“I can’t wait to get the chance to play with the Raiders,” Gardiner said. “They are a great organization and it will be nice to get the opportunity to play back at home.”

Born in Prince Albert, Gardiner played last year with the Humboldt Broncos in the Centre Four Hockey League, where the skilled centre amassed 50 goals and 31 assists in a mere 24 games.  

Gardiner has no intention of sitting on his laurels, practically hitting the gym on a daily basis. 

“My work ethic is something I am most proud of,” said the prolific-scoring centre.

He’s relentless in his preparation, and although thrilled, understands signing a standard WHL education contract is just the tip of the iceberg.  

“There’s a lot of work left to do,” Gardiner said.  

Gardiner’s silky smooth skating speaks volumes, and head coach and general manager, Bruno Campese, said he inhibits the skill set required for a successful WHL career.

Campese reiterated Gardiner’s sentiment.  “Reid has very good size, he sees the ice very well, but his greatest asset may be his work ethic that fits in nicely to the Raiders mould,” Campese said. “Reid’s ability to play at both ends of the rink and his willingness to compete and battle is going to be great fit for the Raiders and its fan base.” 

A lot of pressure rests on the young man’s shoulders, which does not worry his father, Shaun, in the least.  

“There is a lot of pressure on hockey players anyway, so playing in front of bigger crowds shouldn’t be a worry,” said Shaun. “He is very mature and approaches things with the right attitude.” 

Though Gardiner is humble and confident, he said playing in front of a raucous hometown crowd in a year’s time is going to necessitate a semblance of adaptation. 

“I am sure I will be nervous to start,” said Gardiner.  

Gardiner’s mother, Karla, is extremely proud and over the moon about the prospect of her son staying in Saskatchewan.  

“Family is very important,” said Karla. “It’s very important to the family to stay close together.” 

Although Gardiner is a native of Prince Albert, Campese said the organization “looks for the best players possible regardless of where they are from.

Ruby Pseudo Wants a Word: The Albert Kennedy Trust 'AKT now' Advert

'It has always been important to put the consumer at the forefront of your thinking. In today's ever changing world, it is more important than ever. What Ruby and her Network offer is an unfiltered, honest and real view of how kids are interacting with your brand - real time. If you are of a weak disposition, don't like the truth or can't cope without one way mirror focus groups then stay away from Ruby. If you want it told like it is, with some very real and useable strategy recommendations, then you have found the right person...' The reason I always jump at the chance to work with Ruby and her team is the fact that they are always there, always willing to help you, love getting you involved and will always make the work interesting and personal... I have worked for and alongside other companies that deal with youth research often, but Ruby and her lot always work in different ways, making your feel comfortable, making your opinion count, helping you get your opinions across in the best way possible for whoever she's working for... Also, whenever she introduces me to other people, clients and stuff, she makes you relaxed, by joking around and although it is work, it is very relaxed, interesting and enjoyable work... She gets the most out of every kid she works with... That's got to be good...

The Gospel according to the Jesus Seminar

Who's Who in the West 1996-1997

TLPJ newsletter

Encyclopedia of Television Series, Pilots and Specials: 1974-1984

Journal of the Institute of Brewing