A Tribute to Al Downer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | MT. BRYDGES, ONTARIO

In 2000, I met a young man named Drew Downer at the Oar House in London, Ontario. Drew was a promising local hockey coach, well-known as a player with an incredible personality and a million-dollar smile. We spent hours discussing hockey, and the more we talked, the more impressed I was by his deep understanding of the game.

Fast forward to 2003, when I was the General Manager of the Bulldogs, tasked with rebuilding the team after a successful run to the OHA Cup. I was searching for the best talent in every area, and Drew, then coaching a young Junior Knight team, came to mind. I approached him about helping us as a scout, and to my delight, he agreed. I quickly discovered I’d gained not one but two sets of eyes—Drew’s father, Al, accompanied him to every game. It wasn’t long before I realized where Drew had learned his craft. Al’s wisdom and mentorship had clearly shaped Drew into a rising star in coaching. Together, they brought exactly what I needed to the team.

The very next season, Drew took his rightful place behind the Bulldogs’ bench, with Al always nearby. I can only imagine the lively discussions they had during drives to the rink—this time analyzing the play of twenty players instead of just one. Their bond as father and son was one of the closest I’ve ever seen.

In 2006, after the 2005/2006 season, I decided to retire. When I informed team owner Alex Campbell, I felt confident leaving the Bulldogs in the hands of quality people including the likes of Drew and Al. The team was poised for success, and the 2006/2007 season proved extraordinary—arguably the best regular season in Bulldogs history, with Drew and Al’s fingerprints all over it. Tragically, in November 2007, Drew passed away in a dirt bike accident. It was a loss that left an indelible mark on all of us, and Al was never quite the same.

A decade later, I was coaxed out of retirement by Director of Hockey Operations Jon Swatuk. To my surprise, Al and his wife Nancy were still involved with the Bulldogs. Nancy was a dedicated volunteer, and I always valued her opinions—her butter tarts and insights were equally cherished. Al, though clearly in declining health, remained a steady presence at games. I often joked with him and sought his thoughts; his passion for the game never wavered.

Last night, during the first period of the Canada-Czechia game, Al passed away. Given the hockey man he was, I can’t help but feel he somehow knew the outcome and the moment was fitting.

Reflecting on my 12 years with the Bulldogs over the past 23, I realize that Al and Nancy never left!  I’m filled with pride but also immense gratitude for Al’s unwavering presence. For more than two decades, Al was a mentor, advisor, and fan—a cornerstone of the Bulldogs organization.

I will always remember Al Downer fondly. His legacy, like Drew’s, is woven into the fabric of this team and the lives they touched along the way. Rest in Peace old friend

Andy Friyia

President | Mt. Brydges Bulldogs Junior Hockey Club