Returning from Camrose, Alberta after his team had come up just short in its bid for a third-straight national title at the RBC Cup, Vernon Vipers owner Duncan Wray had many things on his mind but none were centred around what would fall in his lap on Tuesday, May 10.
Just two days after a gutwrenching 2-0 loss to the Pembroke Lumber Kings in the tournament final, the city of Vernon held a welcome-back celebration at City Hall. Wray was told it was an event to honour the team for another outstanding season, which in part it was, but it also got the understated owner to appear for something he’d ordinarily balk at: personal recognition.
Vernon recognized Wray with the Freedom of the City, a proclamation something like a “key to the city” that only 20 people in the last 50 years have received in the North Okanagan town. Wray was celebrated not only for his exceptional job as an owner and the excellence the Vipers have achieved, but for his outstanding example as a citizen.
Recently retired from his oral surgery practice, the 61-year-old native of Montreal – who has owned the Vipers since 1992 – has always made sure his players are involved in their community and has volunteered his time for efforts such as the Canadian Cancer Society over the years. Still, he was floored when he discovered what the event at City Hall was really about.
“There was supposed to be a civic reception for the team and I was just told it was at 10 o’clock by one of the (Vernon city) councillors,” said Wray. “But when I got there, everybody started congratulating me; I was totally taken by surprise.”
Vernon Mayor Wayne Lippert presented Wray with the proclamation and spoke about the owner’s role and value to the city. Wray himself spoke as did former Vipers coach Troy Mick. Not one for the spotlight, Wray managed just fine but was uncomfortable because he doesn’t believe he’s done anything special.
“I just feel I’ve done the job I feel everyone should do at this level,” he said. “(Mayor) Wayne Lippert presented me with the proclamation and as I’m listening, I’m thinking, `Who is this guy they’re talking about?'”
Now that the season is wrapped up, he’s simply focused on how to get the Vipers set up for more success again next year. But he has another more immediate problem since he’s just retired and Vernon has presented him with the Freedom of the City, which he plans to put on a wall somewhere.
“I’ve got a copy of the proclamation and I’ll frame it but now I’ve got no office to put it in.”
All things considered, it’s not a bad problem to have.
