Brett Connolly shares the Stanley Cup with local hockey fans

Brett Connolly beamed with pride as he hoisted the Stanley Cup for thousands of fans at the CN centre on Monday.

The Washington Capital forward was welcomed by the chants and cheers of his hometown as he entered the arena aboard the infamous Prince George Cougars fanboni.

After his victory lap, the NHL great made his way to centre stage to thank his fans and supporters.

Thousands of sports fans showed up for their chance to see Connolly and the Cup in person, including many jersey-clad youngsters who were given centre stage and later first crack at photos with the trophy.

“I want to play in the NHL when I grow up,” says seven-year-old Huson. “I have his [Connolly’s] name on my shirt already and I watched him play hockey on tv.”

“I’m going to play in the NHL too,” says fellow Prince George minor hockey player Madden. “I will wear my lucky number, the number eight.”

Arguably one of the best moments of the day was watching local hockey fanatic, Ryan Fournier as he experienced a moment usually only reserved for hockey's most elite.

“I kissed the cup! I kissed the cup, I kissed the CUP! I am the biggest hockey fan and I just kissed the cup," said the excited Fournier.

Connolly is now one of only two former residents to bring Stanley back to Prince George, following in the footsteps of Turner Stevenson who the Cup back in 2003.