Joining Gilroy in his journey through minor hockey was his kid brother, Timmy. They grew up only a...

Joining Gilroy in his journey through minor hockey was his kid brother, Timmy. They grew up only a couple of blocks from the Nassau County Coliseum, the home of the New York Islanders. But the only player they knew was Wayne Gretzky. When it came time to sign up for numbers, the brothers both wanted No. 99.

"That was the first one taken and we got to practice late that day. I went 98 and he (Timmy) went 97."

But now No. 97 is the only number Gilroy will wear. That's because Timmy died at age 12, the result of a bicycle accident.

"On the day he passed away, I promised mom I'd always wear his number," said Gilroy.

http://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/614777

I wonder if this will have any effect on the Leafs landing him, what with Burke's imposed "no numbers over 40" mandate.

almost 3 years ago lordosis 3 comments 0 recs |

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I doubt Burke would make the kid change the number in a case like this, hell I doubt he’d make Rick Nash change his number (although word on the street is Nash took 19 cause 19 was taken, so maybe he’ll take that back)

Because Taking The Leafs Seriously Is Not An Option

by JaredFromLondon on Apr 7, 2009 9:25 AM EDT reply actions

Clearly there is deep emotional meaning to the number, as opposed to it just being a hotshot kid thing. I hope that he gets to keep it….you never know, it may end up being a deciding factor in where he goes.

by Jacques Strap on Apr 7, 2009 10:52 AM EDT reply actions