The most famous player to come out of Humber Valley is Ken Dryden, the legendary goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens. Ken’s father, Murray, and his brother, Dave, were also deeply involved in the early years of our association, helping to shape the Humber Valley community both on and off the ice.
Ken’s journey began at age 7 as a member of the Islington Hornets, one of the league’s first two teams. Even then, his talent stood out. The Toronto Star wrote in 1955:
“This game on Thursday night was a spine-tingler, with the Hornets gaining a 2-2 tie on the sensational acrobatic stopping of 7 year old Kenny Dryden, who made 37 saves while the University settlement goalie made 33.”
And remember—Ken was playing against boys up to 11 years old.
Ken was not only an outstanding goaltender, but also excelled in other sports, including high school basketball at Etobicoke Collegiate and baseball in the Kingsway league. He went on to play for Cornell University, where he became one of the most decorated college goaltenders in U.S. history, earning three All-American selections and the title of “Outstanding Athlete” in 1969.
From there, Ken’s career soared. After joining the Montreal Canadiens in 1971, he won the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year and, in just his second season, was named to the NHL’s First All-Star Team and awarded the Vezina Trophy. He cemented his place in hockey history with his performance in the 1972 Canada–Russia Summit Series, and went on to become a six-time Stanley Cup champion, a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, and later a respected author, lawyer, and Member of Parliament.
Ken’s father, Murray, was a tireless community volunteer, active in hockey, baseball, the Kingsway Kiwanis Club, and the Humber Valley United Church. His leadership and commitment left a lasting mark on our community.
Ken’s brother, Dave Dryden, also left an indelible legacy. A goaltender himself, Dave played in both the NHL and WHA with Chicago, Buffalo, and Edmonton, and famously faced Ken as an opposing goalie in a 1971 Montreal–Buffalo game—the only time brothers ever opposed each other as goalies in the NHL. Dave also coached Ken’s Hornets team in the early years and was his first goaltending teacher and inspiration.
The Dryden family’s contributions extend further still. Ken’s sister Judy and his mother Margaret shared the family’s deep commitment to sports, education, and community involvement—values that continue to be carried on today.
Ken Dryden, Humber Valley & The Stanley Cup
On Saturday, October 15, 2011, Ken Dryden was given his day with the Stanley Cup—and he chose to bring it home to Central Arena to share with his Humber Valley family.
Think about it: if you had that chance, who would you want to share it with? For Ken, part of the answer was clear. He returned to the place where his hockey journey began, recognizing the role Humber Valley Hockey Association played in shaping his path.
A Note on Ken Dryden’s Passing
On September 5, 2025, we were saddened to learn of the passing of Ken Dryden. Ken was not only one of the greatest goaltenders in the history of the game, but also Humber Valley’s most celebrated alumnus. His impact was felt far beyond the ice, through his dedication to education, leadership, and public service.
The Humber Valley Hockey Association extends our heartfelt condolences to the Dryden family. We are proud to count Ken among our own and will always honour the remarkable legacy he and his family built in our community.
