(November 2025) At our 3rd Annual Steve Gillard & Jersey Night, the family of Steve Gillard proudly wore their hockey jerseys and joined the Assante CBS Junior Renegades, the St. John’s Junior Caps, and local hockey fans to show their respect and love for our cherished friend Steve Gillard.
Steve was our first General Manager when the club entered the St. John’s Junior Hockey League in 2010, until his death in April 2023.
Steve’s Mom Nancy, his sister Cynthia, traveling from Ontario, and his son Andrew (a Junior Renegade 2011-2015), Steve’s whole family, really, were there on a mission.
Yes, there was the pre-game ritual…a few speeches, our National Anthem, some tears, and the ceremonial puck drop by Nancy, Cynthia, and Andrew. (83-year-old Nancy’s first puck drop, she confessed.)
And while Steve’s Dad Jack wasn’t able to make the trip from Ontario, he helped arrange a special letter and donation with his family to present on-ice in memory of his devoted son.

The letter wrote:
“To the CBS Jr. Renegades
On behalf of all members of the Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans of Canada Unit 400, in Orilla, Ontario, we would like to donate to the CBS Jr. Renegades in the amount of $2,000 in memory of Steve Gillard.
Research shows that even one stable supportive adult can significantly improve a young person’s confidence, resilence, and long-term outcomes. We know that Stephen was one of those dedicated individuals.
Sincerely,
Val Hart, President
ANAF Orilla 400”

But the Gillards were’t done yet.  Before the puck even dropped, the family also donated another $700 in memory of Steve, and the funds will give young kids and families an opportunity to experience minor hockey in CBS by helping cover the registration and cost.
Steve Gillard & Jersey Night 3 was a memorable night in Kelligrews, joining two other magical November nights in the team’s 16-year history…Bob Cole Night in CBS, November 3rd, 2012, and the Riley Mercer Night, November 30th, 2013.
Thanks again to Nancy, Jack, Cynthia, Andrew, and all the wonderful Gillard family who traveled and donated. Thanks to ANAF Orilla 400 for the generous donation in Steve’s memory. Thanks to Ulf for the photography, Scott for the video, and the fans who proudly wore their colours and supported their team.
And, as always, thanks to Steve, the Renegades GM for Life!

Photography by Ulf Teschendorff.