Carey Price Says His Ulkatcho Roots Belong at the Heart of His Hall of Fame Honour

Carey Price says being identified as a member of the Ulkatcho First Nation on his Hockey Hall of Fame plaque was essential to him. The former Montreal Canadiens goaltender said he wanted that part of his identity to be prominent as his career and journey were recognized. Price grew up in the remote British Columbia community of Anahim Lake. He said he still sees himself as a resident of the place, even though he no longer lives there, and stressed the importance of taking pride in one’s roots and working toward personal goals. His path to the NHL involved a major commitment from his family. According to Price, his father, Jerry, bought a small plane to make it easier to travel between the family home and the nearest arena. Price recalled spending many hours on planes, in trucks and in cars with his father, and expressed gratitude to him and the rest of his family for their support. Price also said his mother, Lynda, who served as chief of the Ulkatcho First Nation council, would be on his mind as he addressed guests at the Hall of Fame ceremony. He expected the speech to be emotional, explaining that he had read it aloud several times and might struggle to hold back tears. He planned to attend with about 20 people. The former Canadiens goalie was due to be celebrated again the following evening, when Montreal honoured him during its game against the Minnesota Wild. Price said he had taken part in many ceremonies over the years, but expected this one to be especially meaningful—and possibly even more emotional than the Hall of Fame event.