The 1927-28 University of Manitoba Varsity Hockey Club had a magical season that culminated in the Allan Cup as champions of senior amateur hockey. Vince Leah wrote, “There was nothing phoney about the Varsity squad. All were eligible undergraduates and the players' names would appear in later years in their respective professional fields.” Future Hall of Famer Ward McVey (inducted in 1999) in accountancy, Blake Watson in medicine, and former St. John’s College standout Andy Blair led the Varsity.
The Manitoba students claimed the Allan Cup in a three game series over the Montreal Victorias in Ottawa. After dropping the opening game to the Montreal side 2-0, the University of Manitoba Varsity squad battled back to take game two 6-3. Goalie Art Puttee and the rest of the Manitoba side shut out the Victorias 1-0 to capture the national title. Jack Hughes would go on to coach the 1931 Winnipegs to an Allan Cup and complete a rare double in coaching the Elmwood Millionaires to the Memorial Cup that same year.
ROSTER: Top Row L-R: Jack Hughes-Coach, O.T. Anderson-Pres., W. Adamson-Mgr., and Walter Robertson-Trainer. Middle Row L-R: Ward McVey-Defence, Blake Watson-Capt./Left Wing, Leo Collins-Sub Forward, and Guy “Weary” Williamson-Defence. Bottom Row L-R: Jack St. John-Sub Forward, Andy Blair-Centre, Art Puttee-Goal, J.E. “Jack” Pidcock-Sub Forward and Gordon N. McKenzie-Right Wing.
