Brandon brings home the Cup 

As the moment that fans had been waiting for finally arrived, Brandon Montour raised the Stanley Cup above his head, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd during the celebratory parade on Wednesday.

The parade, held to honour the National Hockey League's 2023-24 champions, saw Montour proudly bringing the coveted Cup home to Ohsweken on July 24, marking a historic first for the Rotinonshonni community.

Montour, a Mohawk defenseman for the Florida Panthers, has solidified his place in history as the first player from the Six Nations of the Grand River community to lift the Stanley Cup. This achievement not only reflects Montour's personal success, but also serves as a proud moment for all Rotinonshonni communities.

Notably, the last time a Mohawk player was on a winning team in 1967 (Leafs’ captain George Armstrong, from Wahta), the Stanley Cup did not make its way to their community. This makes Montour’s victory for the Six Nations of the Grand River community even more significant and historic.

Montour's journey to the NHL has been filled with challenges, but it has also allowed him to showcase his remarkable talent, determination, and the impact that support from his family and community can have on one’s success.

The Mohawk defenseman's skills are not limited to ice hockey, as he has also excelled in lacrosse, a sport he credits for sparking his passion for hockey.

Growing up, Montour idolized players from lacrosse and hockey, and his success with the Six Nations Rebels and the Six Nations Arrows, including winning the Junior A Minto Cup in 2014, highlights his exceptional achievements.

During the press conference at the Ohsweken Speedway, Montour praised his love for lacrosse as the driving force behind his passion for hockey. “You know, I was a kid, and I grew up obviously idolizing players, not just hockey but lacrosse,” he said.

His success as a professional athlete serves as an inspiration for other young athletes, showing them the level of success that can be achieved with hard work and determination.

“I think when you have one of your own or somebody that’s close, or even if you don’t know me, to reach this level ... it’s just a bonus for any kid growing up that wants to reach that level,” he said.

The parade in Ohsweken, held after the media conference at the speedway, not only celebrated Montour’s victory but also recognized the contribution of the community and their unwavering support for the defenseman’s success. It was a moment of pride, achievement, representation, and inspiration for future generations.

For eight-year-old Miley Hill, a proud Montour fan and a hockey player herself, seeing the Stanley Cup brought to Ohsweken was a dream come true.

“I hope to become an ace defenseman like Brandon,” said Hill.

As a member of the Oneida Wolf Clan, Miley hopes to one day bring the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s Walter Cup back to her community.

Montour's accomplishment highlights the importance of representation in mainstream sports, showing the impact that diversity can have on the sport and its audiences.

Bringing the Stanley Cup to Ohsweken was more than just a sports celebration. It was a moment that will be remembered for years to come, filled with pride, achievement, and inspiration for future generations.

As Montour himself put it, "You can’t really describe how it feels, but I’m very grateful and honoured to be in the position I’m in. To win at this level, you can’t beat it."

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