London Knights co-captains Mitchell Marner and Christian Dvorak hoisted the Memorial Cup up before hundreds of cheering fans in Victoria Park Monday.
It was part of a joyous homecoming for London's OHL team, fresh off the plane from Red Deer, Alberta. The Knights were crowned the 2016 Memorial Cup Champions for the second time in franchise history on Sunday after defeating the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies 3-2 in overtime.
The Knights arrived from Alberta at the London International Airport at 4:30pm. They were then escorted by London police down Oxford St. to Richmond St. to the downtown park where Londoners stood elbow to elbow in sweltering heat to welcome them home.
Jeff Maloy has been a Knights fan for 35 years. When he heard the team would be bringing the Memorial Cup to the park he knew he had to come.
"I was a little nervous when the Knights went into overtime Sunday but they did really well. I'm really happy for them. Can't wait for next year," says Maloy.
For Kris Usher watching the Knights play is a bonding experience for him and his son.
"My son and I were watching the game together," says Usher. "We were on the edge of our seat the whole time but there was never any doubt they'd bring home the cup."
He says coming to the park after the Knights Memorial Cup wins is quickly becoming a tradition.
"I was here in 2005 when they won it then, so I had to come now. I brought my son who was eight months old in 2005, now he's almost 12. We had to bring him down. "
Taking the stage to address the crowd, Knights Coach Dale Hunter, told the crowd "we thank the fans. You guys make us tick."
Hunter went on to applaud the hard work of the players.
"We dug in deep, we never quit. They are all great character guys. You win with great character, which is what all these boys have. We are very proud of them," Hunter told the crowd.
Knights General Manager, Basil McRae, received the loudest cheer of the afternoon when he announced to the crowd "we have the best players not only in the OHL but the CHL."
McRae wrapped up his remarks by stating "Mayor Matt Brown said he can't wait for next year but I can wait. I'm going to go home and get some sleep."
