Ray Bourque
About Ray’s Career –
Raymond J. Bourque, a model of proficiency and consistency at an elite level throughout his career, was born in Montreal, Quebec. Inspired by the firewagon offense and oppressive defense of his hometown Canadiens through the dynastic seventies, Bourque climbed the rungs of minor hockey and was chosen by the Boston Bruins with their first selection, eighth overall, in the NHL’s 1979 Entry Draft. That fall, Bourque made his NHL debut amidst the accolades of teammates, media and opponents.
Bourque consistently provided leadership from his spot on the Boston blue line. Through twenty seasons with the Bruins, twelve as team captain, Bourque dominated, earning 17 selections to NHL All-Star Teams. He was a five-time recipient of the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s best defenseman. When the opportunity arose to join the Colorado Avalanche at the trading deadline in March 2000, Bourque deliberated, then decided to join the Stanley Cup contenders. Although Colorado wasn’t successful in achieving its goal that first season, in 2000-2001, a pursuit Ray labeled ‘Mission 16 W,’ the Colorado Avalanche made Bourque’s dream a reality when the team was crowned Stanley Cup champion in 2001. It had taken twenty-two seasons, but Ray Bourque had finally achieved his lifelong hockey goal. That summer, he retired, going out on top.
In honor of his great contributions to hockey, both the Boston Bruins and Colorado Avalanche retired Ray’s #77 jersey. In 2004, Ray Bourque was selected to join hockey’s elite in the Hockey Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.
In addition to the long-lasting impact Bourque made on ice, he was also extremely dedicated to being a leader off the ice. As a member of the Boston Bruins, he began the Christmas Toy Giveaway that provided presents to local families in need around the holidays. He constantly supported local causes and held the position of President on the Board of a Boston-based non-profit that assisted athletes in leveraging their fundraising capabilities to provide support to causes that were close to their hearts.
Following his hockey career, Bourque embraced his entrepreneurial spirit and opened a restaurant in the North End, Tresca. The restaurant specializes in delicious Italian food and traditional hospitality just blocks from the Boston building where #77 hangs in the rafters
