A goalie's mask can be a big part of his on-ice identity, and Estevan Bruins netminders Matt Gibney and Brett Lewchuk will look a little more distinctive between the pipes from now on.
The two goalies were recently given personalized masks designed by Heavy T Designs in Saskatoon and sponsored by Power Dodge. It's the first time either has worn a customized cage and it came as a surprise for both.
"It means a lot to me because it shows both me and Gibs how much we mean to this team and how much we mean going forward with this team, so it's really nice that they did this for us," said Lewchuk, who is backing up Gibney this year as an 18-year-old rookie.
Gibney has worn his new headgear in recent games. Lewchuk will have to wait as he recovers from a broken thumb sustained in practice in mid-November. The injury is expected to keep him out at least another three weeks.
"I love it, personally. I think it's amazing. It's the first time I've ever had a personal painted mask, and I was beyond excited," Gibney said.
Both masks have a bear head on the left side and a large Bruins logo on the right, along with a bear paw on the back with the goalie's number and nickname. They also have their differences.
The top of Lewchuk's mask features a sign that says Beware of the Estevan Bruins. The bottom is a tribute to Saskatchewan, depicting wheat, a pumpjack and a Saskatchewan sunset. The cage also has several bullet holes, a feature Lewchuk particularly likes.
Gibney's mask has paw prints and the vintage Bruins crest featured on the team's third jersey throughout.
"I just love the colour scheme, how it's simple and I think the gold cage just sets it off. It brings back a little bit of the past with a little bit of the present as well," Gibney said.
"I'm really excited to go out with a really cool memento of being a 20-year-old and finishing off with the Bruins."
