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 Tara Green, left, and Michelle Jackson of Rankin Inlet took advantage of the unveiling of Jordin Tootoo's sign to have their picture taken with Tootoo and fellow Nashville Predators forward Scottie Upshall. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo |
The two NHLers were in Rankin for the unveiling of the Welcome to Rankin Inlet: The home of Jordin Tootoo sign.
Tootoo has long been known for his approachability in signing autographs and posing for pictures while visiting his home town, and Upshall proved himself just as accommodating during his brief visit.
Support for Jordin
"You see the support Jordin gets in his hometown, and how willing he is to sign autographs and pose for pictures, and it's nice to see that kind of interaction with his fans," observed Upshall.
"I was flattered so many people asked me to get in their picture with Jordin."
Kevin McLarty is a young goalie coming up through the Rankin minor hockey ranks.
A one-time Ducks fan, McLarty changed his allegiance when Anaheim didn't resign his favourite player, Paul Kariya.
McLarty says it was a big thrill to have his picture taken with a pair of NHLers.
"It's pretty cool that Jordin, who's from right here in Rankin, made the NHL," says McLarty.
"But, as much as I like Jordin, my favourite NHL teams are now Montreal and New Jersey.
"Nashville's about my third favourite team."
Grade 12 student Michelle Jackson is working at the Rankin Inlet Youth Centre during her summer holidays.
A little intimidating
She says even though Tootoo is from Rankin, it's still a little intimidating to walk up and ask two NHLers to have their picture taken with you.
"The kids at the youth centre really wanted to see Jordin, so we took them up to the airport," says Jackson.
"Once we were there, my friend (Tara Green) and I decided to ask for a picture and it was pretty exciting when they said yes.
"We're waiting for the pictures to be developed and when I get mine, it's going right into my photo album.
"It would be nice though, if, someday, I had the chance to get it autographed by both of them."
