graeme craig
Former Bronco Graeme Craig (photo from scbroncos.com)

The following is a letter forwarded to us by the parents of Graeme Craig after the defenceman was traded by the Swift Current Broncos to the Saskatoon Blades recently in a deal for forward Brent Benson...


An open letter to friends and fans of the Broncos from the parents of Graeme Craig:

As you know, Graeme was traded last week to the Saskatoon Blades. We had made plans to be in Swift Current on October 19 & 20 weeks earlier to watch the two home games against Saskatoon on Friday and Tri Cities on Saturday just like we have done so often since Graeme was 16. Time goes so fast! We learned Thursday of the trade and adjusted our plans to attend Friday’s game in Swift Current and take some things up to Saskatoon on Saturday for Graeme and watch his first home game as a Blade.

It was gratifying from a parent’s perspective to hear the rousing cheer for Graeme when introduced as a Blade at the beginning of Friday’s game, and to hear so many good wishes throughout the evening from Bronco parents, billets, and Bronco fans. I could barely hold back tears during the national anthem as the reality that this was no longer “his barn” really hit home. It is difficult to see Graeme traded from Swift Current, but we are excited and grateful for the opportunity he has been given in Saskatoon.

As Graeme’s parents, we want to express our appreciation for the many people from teachers to board members to fans who have supported Graeme in one way or another during his time with the Broncos. From the men who take the team fishing, the teachers and educational staff, the Bronco personnel, to the parents of friends who welcome the boys into their homes, there are so many who have contributed to make Graeme’s time in Swift Current such a positive experience. There is no way to thank you all personally! We do want to especially acknowledge his billets, John & Carol Dyck, for providing a great environment for Graeme and making sure he was well fed.

Last, we won’t forget Adam, Reece and rest of Graeme’s Bronco teammates who are also his good friends. We’ll be following your careers and cheering loudly! You guys rock!

Helen & Alvin Craig