Lorne Molleken to Speak at Miniota’s Sportsman’s Dinner This Saturday

UPDATE: Lorne Molleken, a veteran of the Western Hockey League (WHL), is set to be the keynote speaker at Miniota’s second annual Sportsman’s Dinner on Saturday, October 7, 2023. With only two tables of eight left, costing $480 each, attendees are urged to act quickly to reserve their spots by contacting Tricia Leland at 204-851-1003 or Traci McKean at 204-851-8221.

Molleken, now 69, has deep roots in the WHL, having played in the league during the 1970s and coached for multiple decades. “It’s an honor to help raise money for their facility,” Molleken said, expressing his excitement for the event that aims to support ambitious renovations at the Miniota Recreation Centre, costing over $1 million. The renovations include installing a new ice plant and improving the arena’s facilities.

This event comes at a crucial time as many smaller communities, like Miniota, seek to enhance local sports facilities. “For small towns, these facilities are gathering places, and it’s really important,” Molleken emphasized. His connection to Miniota is through Brad Cole, a Manitoban who previously played for him in Saskatoon.

As a prominent figure in the WHL, Molleken reflects on the changes in the league over his extensive career. He notes a significant shift towards hockey academies and larger centers, contrasting it with the past when small-town teams thrived. “I remember when the Brandon Wheat Kings were predominantly filled with local talent from Manitoba,” he recalled.

Molleken’s journey includes playing for teams like the Swift Current Broncos and coaching roles that spanned across junior and professional leagues, including stints with the Chicago Blackhawks and Pittsburgh Penguins. His experience gives him a unique perspective on the evolution of junior hockey, especially after the 1990 draft changes that reshaped team rosters.

While no longer coaching, Molleken continues to mentor aspiring coaches at Prairie Hockey Academy and cherishes his time with family at his home in Regina Beach. His legacy in the WHL includes coaching over 1,136 games and achieving 626 wins, ranking him among the top coaches in the league’s history.

As the Sportsman’s Dinner approaches, excitement builds within the community. This event not only honors Molleken’s contributions to hockey but also emphasizes the importance of community support in enhancing local sports infrastructure.

Make sure to reserve your table now to participate in this inspiring event and support the future of hockey in Miniota!