Ray Bourque becomes a member of the Hershey Bears for one day

In the town that his son has become a legend, Ray Bourque came to Hershey, PA to join the Chocolate and White, but for only one day.

“I would have been here watching the game tomorrow night,” Bourque said in a press conference before the alumni game. “I was asked if I’d be willing to play the game and I said sure – it’d be a lot of fun.”

Chris has spent nine seasons in the Chocolate and White, something that Ray has enjoyed experiencing. “Chris has had quite a career in the American League especially. He’s played a certain amount of games in the NHL but in this league, he’s been very productive. A lot of special things have happened here in Hershey. He’s won three Calder Cups, MVP of the playoffs, a scoring title of the league.

“His oldest son Kingston was born here in Hershey. Really been a special place for Chris and his family as well as for us watching him have success here. He’s really really grown up here in Hershey in terms of a man. We’re very proud of him.”

Ray decided to wear Chris’ 17, a number his son has made so famous in Hershey, for the game. “I just hope I don’t disappoint him. I really don’t know what number I was going to wear. 17 this morning I saw so I was pretty cool. Just try to make him proud.”

“Whenever I get to see him skate, it’s one of the best players to ever play the game,” said Chris Saturday morning. “To me, I think he was still the best player on the ice. World class player. It was fun to watch him.”

The 57-year-old Hockey Hall of Famer had one assist in the game, helping Hershey towards a 9-5 victory.