Serge Aubrey Savard OC CQ, born on January 22, 1946, is more than a revered name in the world of hockey. Beyond his illustrious career as a Canadian professional ice hockey defenseman, particularly with the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League (NHL), Savard’s life is woven with familial bonds, personal milestones, and a legacy that extends far beyond the rink.
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Early Years and Playing Career
Serge Savard’s journey began with minor league hockey, showcasing his skills with the Montreal Junior Canadiens and later with the Omaha Knights. However, it was his tenure with the Montreal Canadiens starting in 1966 that would etch his name in hockey history. With eight Stanley Cup championships under his belt (1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979), Savard’s prowess on the ice was unmatched.
His unique style of play, often characterized by the famous “Savardian Spin-o-rama,” became synonymous with his name. Notably, he was the first defenseman to win the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs’ most valuable player in the 1968-69 season.
Post-Playing Career and Contributions
After hanging up his skates in 1983, Savard seamlessly transitioned into the role of general manager, leaving an indelible mark on the Montreal Canadiens. His managerial success extended beyond the NHL, with a Calder Cup win with the Sherbrooke Canadiens in 1985.
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Off the ice, Savard’s commitment to community and national pride earned him recognition. In 1994, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada, and in 2004, he became a Knight of the National Order of Quebec.
Family Ties and Personal Milestones
Serge Savard’s personal life intertwines with his professional journey. A proud family man, Savard’s son, Marc, ventured into politics, running for the Liberal Party in the 2005 federal election in the riding of Saint-Bruno-Saint-Hubert.
In the realm of business, Savard has been a partner in a real estate development firm, Thibault, Messier, Savard & Associates, since 1993. His post-hockey career also led him to harness racing, where he co-owned successful horses, including the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame inductee Shadow Play and Meadowlands Pace champion Lawless Shadow.
However, life has not been without its challenges. In September 2004, Savard faced legal issues when he was arrested under suspicion of drunk driving in Montreal. Despite pleading not guilty initially, he later entered a guilty plea in May 2006.
Honors and Recognition
Serge Savard’s impact on the hockey world was officially immortalized on November 18, 2006, when the Montreal Canadiens retired his jersey number, 18, in a special ceremony at the Bell Centre. This tribute stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and contributions to the sport.
As fans and admirers continue to celebrate the accomplishments of Serge Savard, his story goes beyond the statistics and championships. It is a tale of resilience, dedication, and a deep-rooted connection to family—a connection that has been an integral part of his journey from the icy arenas of the NHL to the corridors of success in the post-playing years.
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