In the sad reality of our times, we again honour three former Blues players who have passed away recently.
Former Blues goaltender, Bill Tieland passed away on March 26, 2025 after an illness. Bill’s history with the Blues goes right back to the early days of the game in North Glenora. Bill played hockey with Russ McFall who helped convince him to try out the new game of lacrosse. Bill was a proud member of the 1969 Blues team that represented Alberta in the Canada Games in Halifax. As a goalie, Bill played the game with all his heart and at the highest level of competitiveness. Bill was very athletic and would on occasion scoop up the ball after a save and run with it down the floor to make a play. Bill coached numerous Blues teams as well as contributing to the administrative side of lacrosse reflecting the give back culture coach John Tayler had intentionally instilled. Always a team player, Bill had a great relationship with JET and held him in the highest regard. Bill resided in North Carolina.
Robert ‘Duff’ Scott died peacefully on February 26, 2025 after a long battle with several health issues. Duff’s connection with the Blues goes back almost to the formation of the club in 1966. Duff always played goal and what a goalie he was. Over his career with the Blues, Duff consistently performed to the highest level. His game always rose when the stakes were highest. He played with the Blues on both the 1973 and 1977 Canada Games teams as well as in numerous provincial and national championships. Duff was a good teammate who got along with everyone. He was incredibly well-liked as a teammate and a friend. Duff usually attended Bonnie Night up until this past December when his health took a turn.
Charlie Bender passed away on February 24, 2025. Although Charlie’s time with the Blues was relatively short, he was an impact player with a strong physical presence on the floor which often made up for his lack of experience playing the game. We were happy that Charlie played for the Blues rather than against us as he was a fierce and determined competitor. Charlie was consistently a top contender in the pool tournament at Bonnie Night. His athletic ability shone brightly on the golf course as he was a regular attendee at the Blues annual golf tournament.
The Blues send their deepest condolences to the families of Bill, Duff, and Charlie.
April 6th, 2025