1961 YMCA Flyers Basketball Team to be inducted into Sports Hall of Fame

Saint John, NB – July 23, 2024 – The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is proud to announce the induction of the 1961 YMCA Flyers Basketball team into the Saint John Sports Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place on October 26th at the Lily Lake Pavilion, commemorating the team’s remarkable legacy and celebrating the YMCA’s 170th anniversary.

The Flyers, renowned for their dedication and excellence, achieved an extraordinary feat in 1961 by winning the C.A.B.A Senior B National Championship. Senior B was the highest-ranking level basketball team at the time, making this a major accomplishment for a small Maritime team. This team, comprised of various star players from around Saint John, brought immense pride to their community by defeating the Halifax Schooners with a final score of 73-57.

Recently, many of the Flyers, now in their late 80s and early 90s, gathered at the YMCA, seeing each other for the first time in over 60 years. They shared old stories and celebrated their exciting accomplishment, reminiscing about their journey to the championship.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our 170th anniversary with such a significant event,” said Shilo Boucher, President and CEO at the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick.
“Inducting the Flyers into the Sports Hall of Fame is a wonderful way to honor their legacy and the rich history of our organization. Celebrating this team’s achievement underscores the YMCA’s longstanding commitment to fostering talent and community spirit.”

Ferdinand Forgey, commonly known as Ferd, an original player of the Flyers and the individual who nominated the team for this honor, shared his excitement. “It’s a privilege to see our team recognized after so many years,” says Forgey. “We played with heart and determination, and it’s wonderful to celebrate our achievements with the community and the YMCA. “The best way to put it is ‘Never say never,'” Ferd added, referencing the late George Willard, a former teammate who had previously nominated the team for the award without success.

We have been able to contact all of the players and their surviving families except for Dave Matheson and Clarence “Bunky” Good. If anyone in the community has any connections to their whereabouts, please reach out.

Inducted Team Members:

  • Reynold Mackenzie
  • Ferdinand Forgey
  • Gordon Messer
  • Noel Writtien
  • John Rockwell
  • Art McKay
  • Alfie Smith
  • The Late Ken Gould
  • The Late George Willard
  • The Late Bob Mabey
  • Dave Matheson
  • Clarence “Bunky” Good

The Flyers’ induction is a highlight of the YMCA’s year-long 170 anniversary celebrations. This milestone reflects the enduring spirit and community impact of the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick.

Stay tuned for more information on how you can join us on October 26th at the Lily Lake Pavilion to celebrate the Flyers’ legacy and the YMCA’s 170 years of service to the community.

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About the Saint John Sports Hall of Fame

The Saint John Sports Hall of Fame has honoured local athletes, coaches, officials, teams and sport builders since 1987. Showcased in TD Station, the Hall of Fame spans decades of achievements in a broad spectrum of sports and stands as a tribute to Greater Saint John’s sports legacy.

About YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick

The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is a trusted charity that ignites the potential in people, fostering lasting personal and social change. We are committed to providing opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services, including health, fitness and recreation, licensed child care, camps, outdoor education, employment, education, newcomer services, leadership development and volunteer opportunities. With over 19 locations and supporting more than 45,000 people in Southwestern New Brunswick, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine.

Media Contacts:
Erin Lawlor
Manager of Marketing and Communications,
YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
e.lawlor@saintjohny.ca
506-608-6200

Aaron Kennedy
Chair, Greater Saint John Sports Hall of Fame
akennedy@quispamsis.ca
506-647-6243