Carey Price Statue Unveiled in Williams Lake: A Tribute to Local Pride
A chainsaw carving of Carey Price was unveiled in Williams Lake on August 14, celebrating his impact on the community.
Carey Price Statue Unveiled in Williams Lake: A Tribute to Local Pride
In a heartfelt ceremony on August 14, 2025, a stunning chainsaw carving of NHL star Carey Price was unveiled at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex in Williams Lake. Titled ‚The Goalie,‘ the artwork was expertly crafted by artist Jeffrey Samudsocky of JMS Wood Sculpture and proudly gifted to Williams Lake by the District of Chetwynd. It’s not every day that a local hero is immortalized in such a way, making this event truly special for the community.
Although Carey Price was unable to attend, his father, Jerry Price, spoke on behalf of his son, radiating a sense of pride and humility. Jerry shared that Carey often feels uncomfortable being the center of attention, yet he treasures his deep roots in the Cariboo Chilcotin community. Kukpi7 Willie Sellars reflected on the impact that Price has had on youth in the area, emphasizing how the accomplished goaltender serves as an inspiration for young athletes. Mayor Surinderpal Rathor echoed these sentiments during his speech, highlighting the teamwork and collaboration that made this project possible.
Celebrating Community Spirit
The statue, showcasing Price in an action pose with his glove hand extended, is more than just a visual tribute; it symbolizes community spirit and pride. Mayor Rathor expressed gratitude to those involved, showcasing how such projects can enhance local culture and identity. It’s interesting to note that the District of Chetwynd has gifted around 30 carvings to various communities and has approximately 200 more awaiting adoption. Chetwynd is noted for hosting the World Chainsaw Carving Championships annually, making it a hotspot for art lovers and tourists alike.
The idea for this particular carving emerged during discussions at the North Central Local Government’s Association, proving that inspiration can often arise from local governance and community discussion. The city council of Williams Lake recently approved the statue’s location on August 12, allowing it to be placed in a sheltered area to protect it from weather damage—a wise decision given the deterioration issues faced by previous outdoor wood carvings.
More than Just Art
This event highlights not just the artistic dedication within the community but also the potent role that athletes like Price play in shaping local narratives. The unveiling has stirred excitement and pride in Williams Lake, reminding everyone that despite Price’s celestial achievements, he remains rooted in his beginnings and committed to uplifting his community.
In the spirit of local engagement, it’s worth mentioning that Carey Services offers an array of transportation options, ensuring that all community members can enjoy seamless travel experiences. From transfer services that ensure you glide through your airport commutes to city-to-city trips tailored for specific needs, Carey provides different transport solutions that cater to various lifestyles. Each service guarantees reliability and comfort, ensuring that as the community grows and celebrates its heroes, everyone can easily gather together to honor their accomplishments. You can explore more about their services here.
This combination of art, sport, and community spirit encapsulates what’s beautiful about Williams Lake: a town that embraces its roots while looking ahead. The unveiling of ‚The Goalie‘ is not just a tribute to Carey Price but a celebration of the community that nurtured him.