A remarkable evening for both Flames and Alberta hockey legends in Red Deer.

Hockey Alberta honored its Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2024 on Saturday in Red Deer, with Jarome Iginla, Kelly Kisio, and Dave King among the inductees. The ceremony took place at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, with an enthusiastic crowd filling the auditorium.

In a class that featured notable individuals like Canadian Olympic goaltender Shannon Szabados and former Oilers player and coach Craig MacTavish, Iginla stood out as the center of attention. As the Flames franchise leader in games played, goals and points, and a two-time Olympic gold-medalist, Iginla’s presence was highly regarded.

Saturday’s induction was kind of a full-circle moment for Iginla, the Flames legend fêted in his home province following a Hall of Fame career.

The weekend also served as a nostalgic journey for Iginla.

“It holds great significance and serves as a tremendous privilege for me. It prompts me to reflect on the rapid passage of time, yet it is always a delight to be in Alberta,” he expressed. “Accompanied by my wife, Kara, we arrived in St. Albert and proceeded to drive to Red Deer. Recollections of the numerous trips we made between Edmonton and Calgary for training camps come to mind. Additionally, it evokes fond memories of exploring the province alongside my grandfather, participating in various hockey and baseball tournaments, and cherishing the immense joy it brought.”

Growing up, I was incredibly fortunate and blessed. The joy I experienced while playing and meeting teammates is something that fills me with nostalgia and countless cherished memories.

Kelly Kisio, a veteran NHL forward, was inducted into the Hall on Saturday. Throughout his playing career, Kisio amassed an impressive total of 658 NHL points. He showcased his skills with various teams such as the Red Wings, Rangers, and Sharks, before culminating his journey with the Flames for two seasons from 1993 to 1995.

After assuming the position of GM of the Calgary Hitmen in 1998, he guided the team to victory in the WHL championships in 1999 and 2010, during his 13-year tenure with the club.

Kisio, currently a scout for the Vegas Golden Knights, didn’t initially prioritize being recognized by Hockey Alberta. However, he is now pleased to be included in the Class of 2024.

Kisio expressed his gratitude, stating, “I consider it a great privilege to be connected with remarkable individuals such as Jarome Iginla, Dave King, Shannon Szabados, and Billy Dea, among others. It’s truly fascinating how it all unfolded; I never anticipated it nor gave it much consideration, but now it’s become a reality. I couldn’t be happier.”

On Saturday, Kisio’s coach with the Flames, King, achieved his second induction into the provincial Hall of Fame, following his recognition in Saskatchewan’s Hall nine years prior.

After nearly ten years as the head coach of Canada’s national team, during which he led them to a silver medal at the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France, King took on the role of Calgary’s bench boss from 1992-1995.

King believed that Alberta, specifically Calgary, was the ideal location to foster his coaching career’s growth.

King mentioned that when he was a young coach, Alberta provided an excellent environment for him. This was primarily due to the presence of influential figures like George Kingston at the University of Calgary, Clare Drake at the University of Alberta, and Pierre Page, Tom Watt, and Terry Crisp with the Calgary Flames. This particular era was truly remarkable for coaches in the province. King further expressed his pride in being a part of the Flames organization, which he considers to be exceptional.

Apart from Iginla, Kisio, and King, the team category also had a hint of Flames essence.

Led by former Flames coach Brent Sutter and boasting Calgary alumnus Jim Vandermeer on their strong defensive line, the Red Deer Rebels, champions of the 2000-01 Memorial Cup, were honored with an induction into the prestigious Hall.

Laughter, stories, and a multitude of firm handshakes filled the evening.

An evening dedicated to reigniting relationships and cherishing one another’s presence.

Iginla expressed, “The hockey community is amazing, filled with incredibly kind individuals. After retiring from the sport, you come across familiar faces at rinks or events like this. It’s always a joy to reunite with old teammates, coaches, and other people with whom you have shared stories, fought battles, and had a great time. It’s a truly special experience.”

“I’ve been eagerly anticipating this moment for quite some time, and now that I’m finally here, it feels incredibly enjoyable.”