With the Western Canada Professional Hockey Scouts Foundation’s second annual Wall of Honour induction dinner approaching, we are introducing the 29 members of the Class of ’25 right here. . . . The dinner is scheduled for July 29 in Okotoks, Alta., and is scheduled to feature A Night With the Sutters. . . . Tickets for the dinner are available on the Foundation’s website (hockeyscoutsfoundation.com). . . . The third of our 2025 inductees to be introduced here is Erin Ginnell, who also happens to be the Foundation’s president. His father, the legendary Pat Ginnell, was among the inaugural inductees in 2024.
ERIN GINNELL
(Sept. 9, 1968 —)
Born in Flin Flon, he followed his father, Pat (Paddy), into scouting. . . . Played five seasons of junior (SJHL, WHL) and was fourth-round pick by Washington Capitals in the NHL’s 1986 draft. . . . Spent three seasons (1991-94) with Red Deer College, winning ACAC title in 1994. Also played senior with the Powell River, B.C., Regals, ending career in 2000. . . . The expansion Columbus Blue Jackets added him to their scouting staff in 1999. . . . Moved on to Colorado Avalanche (2001-02), then Florida Panthers (2002-16). Was director of amateur scouting the last five seasons. . . . Joined expansion Vegas Golden Knights (2016) and won Stanley Cup there (2023). . . . Won two Allan Cups (1997, 2000) as Canadian senior champs with Powell River and is in B.C. Hockey Hall of Fame with the Regals. . . . His father also is in the Wall of Honour.
TAKING NOTE 