The St. Louis Jr. Blues have a lot to be thankful for over the last 30+ years. As they open their season this weekend, the family that helped make much of that possible will be honored while for the first time in more that 15 years or so, they will be without their beloved goal judge, John (Jack) Barry. Grandpa Jack is the grandfather of former Jr. Blues player, coach and current General Manager Chris Flaugher and has been manning the home goal light since around the time Chris first suited up in a Jr. Blues uniform. Grandpa Jack was well known, not just in hockey circles, but in many athletic circles. Among the many groups that have honored Grandpa Jack over the years include:
In 2009 – St. Louis Soccer Hall-of-Fame
In 1982 – United States Flag & Touch Football Hall-of-Fame
In 1994 – St. Louis Softball Hall-of-Fame
In 1993 – Catholic Youth Council Silver Boot Winner
While he will be missed, there is a special place in the hearts of all Jr. Blues alumni, fans and staff that have had the pleasure of knowing Grandpa Jack.