Calgary Roughnecks fans have probably noticed something missing from the games this year.
The team is winning, firing on all cylinders and in first place in the West Division. For the first time as a franchise though, Kaleb Toth has not been in the lineup.
As the face of the franchise for more than decade, Toth electrified fans with his hard shot and stick skills, won two NLL championships, grew the sport at a grassroots level and became a lacrosse legend.
He’s finally getting his due.
On March 2nd, he’ll become the first inductee in the “Forever A Roughneck” program against the Edmonton Rush.
During a pre-game ceremony, his banner will raised to the roof inside the ‘Dome, and will hang forever with the reminders of the Riggers 2004 and 2009 titles.
“To be recognized by the Calgary Flames organization in this manner is truly an honour,” commented Toth when the announcement was made. “To be part of the Flames family as the inaugural lacrosse member in the Forever A Roughneck program in my hometown makes it that much more special.”
The homegrown Toth has left his fingerprints all over the franchise. He leads the team in games played (160), goals (274), assists (354), points (628) and game-winning goals (15).
“Kaleb was just a consummate professional, not only on the floor but off the floor,” said Roughnecks captain Andrew McBride, who played with Toth for his entire career. “He was an ambassador for the team and without a superstar, the franchise wouldn’t have been around as long. He’s a first ballot Hall of Famer in this league, and one of the greatest players to every play”
Leading into Kaleb Toth Night, the Calgary Roughnecks website will take an extensive look into the Toth’s youth in Calgary, junior hockey days, the trade that brought him home, every year of his career, and much, much more.
Check back daily for updates.
