StratfordToday received another letter with another story related to Wayne Gretsky's first goal.
I've been reading the columns on the Gretzky first goal at the Allman Arena. I won't comment on who was the goalie in the picture, but I can confirm that I was the Stratford defenceman watching from the opposite side of the crease. At the time I was 10 and in my last year of novice. Wayne would have been just about seven. I was first made aware of the picture in 1985 when a friend saw it in the Walter Gretzky/Jim Taylor book titled Gretzky. Knowing that Walter worked for Bell Canada I sent a letter to him in care of Bell Canada, Brantford.
Months passed and eventually I was sent an 8x10 picture which was signed with "To David, The guy who got me started - Wayne Gretzky." A copy of the first goal picture was also enclosed. I have always appreciated the effort Walter and Wayne put in. The pictures are on my wall and have instigated many conversations over the last 40 years. Many include abuse from friends that claim I was out of position. I always beg to differ.
Anyway I can't pretend to say I remember the goal or Wayne, but I vaguely remember that particular game in that Brantford had a very young and small player on the roster.
The Allman was a big part of my life growing up and some memories are as vivid as yesterday. I hope it can last another 100 years.
Dave Gibb
Calgary
