Rob Blasdell

Known as one of the most respected goaltenders in professional lacrosse, Rob Blasdell took center stage as he was inducted into the athlete category.

Blasdell, who moved to Orillia from Brantford as a teenager, credited the community for helping shape his lacrosse journey.

“I feel like I was raised in Orillia,” he said during an emotional speech. “Looking back, that move changed everything. I’m incredibly proud to call this place home.”

A stalwart in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) for 17 seasons, Blasdell suited up for teams including the Ontario Raiders, Toronto Rock, Albany Attack and San Jose Stealth. He earned NLL Goaltender of the Year honours in 2002 and played in two Champions Cup finals.

But it wasn’t just the accolades that defined him — it was the fierce competitiveness behind his calm mask and his loyalty to teammates and fans alike.

In recounting his career, Blasdell shared a memorable story from a game in Colorado in front of 19,000 fans — a moment that led to the biggest bench brawl of his career.

He thanked his family, especially his late father, and paid tribute to those who helped him along the way, including Orillia’s Bill Smith and Bill Swinimer.