On June 24, 2024, Brandon Montour of the Florida Panthers carried the Stanley Cup high after a thrilling 2-1 victory against the Edmonton Oilers in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena. This victory marks a significant milestone in Montour’s career and brings immense pride to his hometown of Ohsweken and the entire Six Nations of the Grand River community.
In an exciting development, Montour is set to bring the Stanley Cup to Six Nations on Wednesday, July 24. The 30-year-old defenseman, who recently signed a massive seven-year, $50-million contract with the Seattle Kraken, will share this momentous achievement with his community during a grand parade from Ohsweken Speedway to the Six Nations Sports and Culture Memorial Arena.
The parade will culminate in a ceremony at the arena, where Montour will receive the prestigious Six Nations Honourary Ronaterihonte (Leader) Award. The Stanley Cup will be on display, allowing fans to revel in the triumph of their local hero. “We are very proud of Brandon and his accomplishments,” said Six Nations Chief Sheri-Lyn Hill. “This celebration is historic and we’re glad Brandon is sharing this day with Six Nations.”
The festivities, running from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., are expected to draw thousands of fans. A news release from Six Nations of the Grand River announced that roads would be closed from 5th Line to 4th Line and Chiefswood Road to Lawrence Jonathan Lane before and during the event, with one lane remaining open for emergency vehicles. Guests are strongly encouraged to carpool and avoid parking on the side of the road. Food vendors will be available at Veteran’s Park throughout the day.
Many local hockey fans remember watching Brandon when he was a Brantford Golden Eagle and then later joined the Caledonia Corvairs. Montour’s journey then took him to Iowa where he joined the Waterloo Black Hawks of the USHL and then a standout season at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut on December 28, 2016, against the Calgary Flames.
Over his 10-year NHL career, Montour has played for Anaheim, Buffalo, and Florida, making significant contributions to each team. This season, Montour played in 66 games with the Panthers, scoring eight goals and adding 25 assists. In the 2022-23 season, he recorded 73 points, tying for fifth in scoring among defensemen.
As the community prepares to celebrate Montour’s achievements, the excitement is palpable. The Six Nations of the Grand River will not only honor Montour’s individual success but also share in the collective pride of seeing one of their own reach such extraordinary heights.
Join the celebration on July 24 and witness history in the making as Brandon Montour brings the Stanley Cup to Six Nations!
