Don Cherry, the iconic hockey commentator, dusted off his signature style – the high collar shirt, pinstripe jacket, and snappy tie – for a special occasion. It took a personal visit from Ontario Premier Doug Ford to inspire the 92-year-old legend to suit up once more, a look reminiscent of his beloved Coach’s Corner days.
The reason for the celebration? Cherry is set to receive the Order of Ontario in 2025, a long-overdue recognition of his contributions to Canada. From his coaching days with Bobby Orr and the Boston Bruins to his decades of charitable work, and even his unwavering commitment to free speech, the award acknowledges a remarkable life.
Premier Ford personally delivered the congratulations at Cherry’s Mississauga home, praising him as a “great Canadian patriot” and a champion for the country, the province, and the game of hockey. The moment was filled with genuine warmth and a sense of vindication for a man whose outspoken nature once cost him his platform.
The firing from Rogers and Hockey Night in Canada in 2019, stemming from a Remembrance Day comment about poppies, felt like a profound injustice to many. While others remained silent, the appointment to the Order of Ontario feels like a powerful correction, a recognition that his patriotism should be celebrated, not censored.
Ford’s visit wasn’t just a formality; it sparked a spontaneous revival of Coach’s Corner. The two men sat together, mirroring the familiar dynamic of Cherry and Ron MacLean, with Ford taking the place of his former co-host. And true to form, Cherry had a message woven into his tie – a playful tradition from his broadcasting days.
A closer look at the tie revealed a subtle but significant detail: both Canadian and American flags. When asked to change it for the video segment, Cherry refused with a laugh. It was a deliberate statement, a reflection of his deep respect for the United States, the birthplace of his children and a country where he spent many years playing and coaching.
Despite his long-time support for Donald Trump, the conversation with Ford remained focused on shared values and mutual admiration. Cherry simply wanted to express his appreciation for America, emphasizing his desire for a strong relationship between the two nations. He even possesses a jacket adorned with both flags, a testament to his dual allegiance.
Cherry and Ford share a decades-long friendship, extending back to Ford’s brother, the late Toronto mayor Rob Ford. He described the Premier as a “great guy” and a “great premier,” clearly touched by the personal gesture. The visit was a testament to their enduring bond.
Ford echoed Cherry’s sentiments, declaring him an icon to millions of Ontarians and Canadians, and emphasizing that no one was more deserving of the honour. He lauded Cherry as the most patriotic person he had ever met, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the hockey legend.
Now, attention is turning towards a potential Order of Canada nomination. Conservative MP Andrew Lawton, with the backing of Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre, has launched a petition to recognize Cherry’s contributions on a national scale. It’s a fitting next step for a man once voted the seventh Greatest Canadian, and a clear indication that support for “Grapes” remains strong.
