Imagine hockey legends frozen in bronze forever. That is exactly what Legends Row Statue is. It stands just outside Scotiabank Arena. This arena was formerly known as the Air Canada Centre.
Legends Row celebrates fourteen of Toronto’s greatest hockey heroes. The Toronto Maple Leafs Hockey Club commissioned it. Each sculpture is 110% of life-size. This makes them truly larger than life.
Erik Blome created these impressive figures. He is an accomplished sculptor. Blome earned degrees from the University of Michigan and Boston University. He also studied at the Royal College of Art in London.
Interestingly, Blome wasn’t a big hockey fan. Still, he became an expert on iconic players. Johnny Bower, Darryl Sittler, and Mats Sundin became his focus.
The Legends Row Statue installation occurred in stages. It spanned from 2013 to 2017. The initial group included Wendel Clark. Also in the initial setup were: Turk Broda, Charlie Conacher, and Syl Apps. Darryl Sittler, Johnny Bower, and Mats Sundin also made the first cut. Borje Salming, Teeder Kennedy, and Dave Keon were added too. And finally, Tim Horton, Frank Mahovlich, and Red Kelly were among the first to be erected. George Armstrong completed the original lineup.
In 2017, the final four statues were added. These honored Wendel Clark. The others were Red Kelly, Frank Mahovlich, and Charlie Conacher. Brendan Shanahan said Legends Row was full for the foreseeable future. Shanahan hoped current players might one day join the row.
Wendel Clark joked about joining the legends. He said he felt like the fourth liner out there. Frank Mahovlich felt the good vibes of the current Leafs squad.
The Legends Row Statue features a 9-metre-long granite bench. Fans often gather here. They honor these hockey icons. The statue captures a significant part of Toronto’s sports history. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of these hockey legends.
The Air Canada Centre changed its name to Scotiabank Arena in 2018. However, Legends Row remains a beloved landmark. It stands as a tribute to hockey greatness. It reminds us of the thrilling moments these players gave us.
The Legends Row Statue is more than just art. It is a place where memories live on. It connects generations of hockey fans. It celebrates the spirit of the game. Next time you’re near Scotiabank Arena, visit Legends Row Statue. Take a moment to appreciate these hockey giants. Their legacy continues to inspire.