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PAULATUK - Two former NHLers and a professional writer were in Paulatuk in December to speak with students about the importance of reading and literacy.

Bryan Trottier and Al Conroy, along with novelist Sigmund Brouwer, came to Paulatuk as a part of Schlumberger’s Literacy for Life program. The speakers made quite the impression on the students said Angik School principal Jessica Schmidt.

Former NHL player Bryan Trottier hoists Grade 1 student Jeremy Ruben over his head, demonstrating to the class what it is like to lift the Stanley Cup. Ruben got a signed baseball cap for being such a good sport. photo courtesy of Jessica Schmidt

“The team came in and spoke to the students about hard work and reaching your goals and dreams in life,” she said.

The three spokespersons know all about hard work and reaching goals.

Born in small-town Saskatchewan, Trottier had an 18-season career with the NHL playing for the New York Islanders and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Conroy had a 19-year hockey career in various pro-hockey leagues including the NHL.

Brouwer has published more than 17 young adult novels as well as several children’s books and non-fiction books.

The three arrived in Paulatuk on Dec. 8 and the students were treated to an on-ice skating workshop at the rink.

In the evening they took part in a board game night at Angik school.

On Dec. 9 the Literacy for Life team shared their message with students at all grade levels and soaked up some of the Paulatuk culture. The Paulatuk Drummers and Dancers treated the three speakers to a show. They were decked out in their full traditional dress for the performance.

The hockey players returned the favour by showing off a display of Canadian hockey culture.

“Bryan even shared three of his Stanley Cup rings,” said Schmidt. The rings were passed around to students so they could try them on.

Geir Utskot, Arctic manager of Schlumberger, an oilfield services company, said the Literacy for Life tour is about motivating students to achieve their goals and learn that hard work will pay off in the long run.

“As a local company, we are pleased to bring a team led by these three outstanding gentlemen to communities throughout the region to reinforce and encourage the message of making good choices in life and being successful in school,” he said.

Before leaving, the senior high students challenged the literacy team to a floor hockey game. Schmidt wouldn’t say who won, but she did say how much everyone in the school appreciated the visit.

“It was a great visit and a highlight to the end of 2008,” she said.