September 22, 2023

Howie Meeker Storyboard Unveiled

On Monday, September 18th, 2023, the Town of Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s officially unveiled a storyboard highlighting Howie Meeker’s life and contributions to hockey in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Howie Meeker played a significant role in changing the hockey landscape in Newfoundland and Labrador. After his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs as player and Head Coach, as well as being an elected Member of Parliament for Waterloo – Kitchener, he moved to Newfoundland and settled in St. Philip’s in 1958. Howie dedicated his time here by taking over the Guards’ teams, which lead The Guards to win the Boyle Trophy for 3 consecutive years. From here, Howie became a broadcaster for CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada while developing a recreational minor hockey team in Newfoundland and Labrador, coaching the St. John’s Capitals to secure a win for the Herder Memorial Trophy Championship, and publishing an instructional book titled “Howie Meeker’s Hockey Basics”.

The aim of the storyboard is to pay tribute to Howie’s life and career, but to also provide a source of inspiration for future generations. We hope it will encourage our residents and those who visit the storyboard to work hard and follow their dreams.

Mayor Carol McDonald was joined by Howie’s family to unveil the storyboard, where many stories were exchanged. Thank you to the artist of the storyboard, Vessela Brakalova, for providing their passion, time and creativity into capturing Howie’s impressive career. Thank you to the researcher, Crystal Braye, for ensuring Howie’s story was told with as much dedication as Howie put into his life’s work. As well, thank you Julie Pomeroy – Sparrow, our Heritage and Environment Coordinator, for working closely on this storyboard project, with several others that will be installed this fall.

Residents are encouraged to visit the Howie Meeker Playground (formerly Summerwood Playground), located on Summerwood Place to learn about the life and contributions of Howie Meeker.