Curler Thane Campbell one of four new PEI Sports Hall of Fame Inductees (Journal)

(by Millicent McKay)

Thane Campbell, curling; Bill Purcell, hockey; Gerard Smith, the 1977 Islanders; and Ian “Tex” MacDonald, softball and football, were inducted into the P.E.I. Sports Hall of Fame on Saturday.

Four new inductees took their place in the P.E.I. Sports Hall of Fame Saturday. Featured is: Terry Shea, CEO of P.E.I. mutual, (back row, left), Gerard Smith, “Tex” MacDonald, Bill Purcell, Harriet Campbell-Meacher (front row, left), and Paul H. Schurman, Chair of the P.E.I. Sports Hall of Fame.

©Millicent McKay/TC Media

Thane Campbell/Curling

Campbell, who was quintessential in progressing the sport of curling on the Island, was given the honour posthumously. He joined the Summerside curling club in 1928 and the club later won the championship title in 1935. From 1941 to 1942 Campbell acted as the president of the Dominion Curling Association.

His daughter, Harriet, accepted the award on his behalf.

“He was always curling,” she said with a smile.

“I remember as a little girl we would go with him to the briers and just watch the matches.”

It’s an extremely proud moment, she added.

“I grew up with him curling and I think it’s important to recognize the local athletes.”

“It sets a great example for the younger generation to emulate.”

Click to read full story at the Journal Pioneer.